Laina Ann (Burnell) Aylward, a beacon of strength and love, passed away peacefully on April 18, 2025, after a private, but courageous, battle with cancer. Born in Northfield, Vermont, on March 26, 1967, to Bertha (Susie) and Jerome Burnell of Waterbury, Laina embraced life with an unwavering spirit.
Known for her dedication and tenacity, Laina met every challenge head-on, never backing down. Her children, Aliza and Kara, were the recipients of her boundless love and support, as she poured her heart into ensuring their success. This same devotion shone brightly in her most cherished role as "Gigi" to her beloved grandchildren: Dylan, Sydney, Jaxon, and Marshall.
Growing up, Laina's first professional experience at Angelinos in Waterbury sparked two enduring passions: a love for making pizza and a strong work ethic that would define her. Later, her commitment and versatility shone through her work across the Mad River Valley, where she supported numerous organizations such as South Village, Bridges Resort and Tennis Club, Green Mountain Valley School, and the Hyde Away.
Laina enjoyed adventures including traveling to various countries for her annual sister’s trips and endless road trips that brought her across the United States. With her ever-competitive spirit, she also loved playing (and often winning) games of Bingo, Yahtzee, and cards. Laina held a deep affection for the outdoors, where she found immense joy in activities like fishing and boating, and felt a strong connection to nature through hiking and camping. This passion for camping culminated in the purchase of her treasured camp in Roxbury, a place of peace and happiness for Laina.
Those fortunate enough to know Laina will always remember her radiant smile, one that lit up her whole face and left a lasting warmth in their hearts.
She is survived by her loving partner in life, Michael Pilarcik; her children, Aliza Ladd and her husband Michael of Boston; Kara Pilarcik and her partner Keith Perks of Barre, VT; her mother Bertha Burnell; her siblings, Heather Burnell, Ross Burnell and his wife Tina, and Jennifer Burnell; and her grandchildren Dylan Ladd, Marshall Ladd, Sydney Perks, and Jaxon Perks. She also leaves behind many nieces, nephews, great nieces, and a great nephew. Laina was preceded in death by her father, Jerome Burnell.
A celebration of Laina's life will be held on Saturday, June 14, 2025 from 2 to 5 p.m at the Mad River Barn in Waitsfield.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Laina’s honor to Sail Beyond Cancer, Dana Farber Cancer Institute, or Central Vermont Medical Center's Cancer Branches of Hope Fund
