Kalaina L. Mercer

Kalaina Leigh Mercer, 44, of Pleasant Hill, Missouri, was born November 6, 1980, in Lawrence, Kansas, the daughter of Michael and Karen (Nordling) Koehler. She departed this life Sunday, May 18, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of love and compassion.

Kalaina was a 1999 Lawrence High School graduate. She earned her degree in nursing from Rockhurst College and the St. Lukes School of Nursing.

In 2006 she was united in marriage to Cody Davis and to this union one son Ebben was born; she and Cody later divorced. Her love story with Jerimiah Mercer began in 2012. They were united in marriage and to this union two children, Kaitlyn and Jaxon were born. Her children were her greatest pride, and she wanted them to know they were the very best part of her.

Kalaina was a true caregiver at heart and took great pride in her career in nursing. She worked in the cardiovascular unit at St. Luke’s East and at the Kansas University Medical Center, touching countless lives with her gentle spirit and service to others. Above all, she was a devoted wife and homemaker who loved spending time with all her family. She enjoyed traveling, collecting heart shaped rocks, and was active in all of her children’s activities.

Kalaina is survived by her husband Jerimiah of Pleasant Hill; four children, Ebben Davis of Lawrence, Jesalyn Mercer, Kaitlyn Mercer, and Jaxon Mercer, all of Pleasant Hill; her parents, Michael and Karen of Lawrence; one brother, Daniel Koehler of Baldwin, Kansas; other relatives and a host of friends.

Though she will be deeply missed, Kalaina’s warmth and generosity will continue to inspire all who knew her.

“A great soul serves everyone all the time. A great soul never dies. It brings us together again and again.” -Maya Angelou

Visitation will be held 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. Wednesday, May 28, 2025, at the funeral home. All are invited to attend.

Funeral services will be private. Long time family friend and pastor Doug Cole will officiate. Interment will be in the Pleasant Hill Cemetery. Casket bearers are Jerimiah Mercer, Ebben Davis, Jaxon Mercer, Daniel Koehler, Doug Cole, Tylor Strickland, and Ian Stookey.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions are suggested to her children’s education fund which has been established at the Goppert Financial Bank. Make checks payable to Jeremiah Mercer. Contributions may also be sent in care of the funeral home.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.StanleyEdenburn.com

Arrangements: Stanley-Edenburn Funeral Home, 203 N. Armstrong St., Pleasant Hill, Missouri 64080 (816) 540-5550