Kristi Carney

October 13, 1959 – February 3, 2026

Kristi Carney, beloved mother, grandmother, aunt, sister, and friend, passed away on February 3, 2026, at Butterworth Hospital in Grand Rapids, Michigan.

Kristi devoted her life to her family, caring deeply for her children and grandchildren. She was strong, independent, and selfless, always placing the needs of others before her own. Known for her kindness and generosity, Kristi had an extraordinary ability to welcome everyone into her life and treat them as her own. She saw each person for who they truly were, loved them for their individuality, and encouraged them to reach their full potential.

Kristi was a truly creative and artistic soul, with a gift for seeing beauty where others saw what was worn or forgotten. She loved crafting, drawing, painting, and sewing, often creating her own decorations and handmade pieces. She had a remarkable talent for refurbishing furniture—taking items that seemed to have no life left and bringing them back with rich colors, thoughtful designs, and renewed warmth. From creating Halloween costumes and repairing dresses for others to decorating for the holidays, Kristi poured her heart into everything she made. Her creativity was an extension of her love, leaving behind pieces of beauty and care that will continue to surround those who knew her.

Kristi was unstoppable in her spirit. Stubborn by nature, she always followed her own path, doing what she wanted and living life on her own terms, no matter how much anyone tried to convince her otherwise. Her humor was one of her greatest gifts—she loved to laugh, and she loved to see others smile. She always had a funny comment or playful observation to share, lighting up any room she entered.

Kristi graduated from Oakridge High School in 1978. She worked for Wendy’s for over 20 years, serving as a district manager, where she was respected and admired by colleagues and staff alike. She was also well known at Maycroft Square Tappers, where she generously volunteered her time assisting with wardrobe and supporting the arts within her community.

She is survived by her children, Cody Carney and Kaitlyn Carney, and Kaitlyn’s fiancé, Mariah Messer; her grandchildren, Carter Carney, Khloe Carney-O’Neal, Lily Carney-O’Neal, Teagen Jowers, and Milo Carney; her sisters, Anita Moon (Ron Moon), and Audrey Coleman; her brother, Jeff Carney (Linda Carney) and her brother-in-law, Mike Passage.

Kristi was preceded in death by her parents, Earl and Beverly Carney; her sister, Denise Passage; brother in law Ron Colman; Niece Christina Wood.

Cremation has taken place. A service to celebrate Kristi’s life will be announced at a later date.