Springfield, Missouri - Laurie Ann Longan, 71, passed away unexpectedly March 14, 2026 while traveling in Colorado, surrounded by friends, mountains, nature, and dogs. She had spent the day hiking, exploring art and beauty in the world, and soaking in the landscape. By all accounts, it was one of the best trips of her life.

Laurie lived boldly, creatively, and entirely on her own terms. An artist and sculptor, she spent her life creating beauty and encouraging others to do the same. She believed art should never be constrained and encouraged everyone around her to express themselves freely. Many of those she loved credit her with shaping their creativity and confidence to explore their own voices.

Animals were another great love of Laurie's life. She was rarely without a lively collection of rescue pets — dogs, mice, chickens, and more — and she loved each of them fiercely. Her compassion for animals left a lasting mark on her family and friends.

Laurie was a passionate advocate and educator. As a lesbian woman during decades when that required courage, she spoke openly with her family about LGBTQ+ culture and the realities of the AIDS epidemic during the 1980s and 1990s. She believed that knowledge and understanding were the best tools for fighting fear, and she made sure the people she loved were informed, aware, and compassionate.

Laurie worked for the Kansas City Free Health Clinic as an HIV Outreach Coordinator, where she spent time on the streets educating and caring for one of the most underserved and vulnerable populations during the height of the AIDS crisis. Laurie's gift was ministry to the underserved, and she carried out that work with an open heart and without expectation of recognition.

She was loud in the best ways — in her laughter, her opinions, her art, and her love. Laurie lived as a creator, a wanderer, an animal lover, an advocate, and a survivor. She embraced life fully and unapologetically.

Those who knew her will remember her fearless individuality, generous spirit, and the way she encouraged others to live authentically.

Laurie was a lifelong resident of the Greater Southwest Missouri area, most recently residing in Springfield. She graduated from Carthage Senior High School in 1972, and later earning a Bachelor in Fine Arts from the Kansas City Art Institute. Laurie was preceded in death by her parents, Fred and Anita Longan. She is survived by her sister, Lindy (Longan) Gipson; her brother, Frank Longan; her nieces Beth (Gipson) Schmidt, Becky (Gipson) Hopper, and Addie (Longan) Likeness; her nephews Ross (Veronica) Gipson, Drew (Tori) Longan, and Cooper Longan; and nine great-nieces and great-nephews.

Family and friends are planning a celebration of life at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you honor Laurie's memory by taking a moment to perform an act of kindness, volunteer in your community, or donate to a local community or animal shelter.