Kayesea Tamela Hayes, affectionately known to all as Ksi, brought an irrepressible joy and laughter to the world that will be deeply missed. Born on March 6, 1992, in Allegan, Michigan, Ksi's infectious smile first lit up the world and continued to shine until her untimely departure on January 16, 2024, in Kalamazoo, Michigan. Her life, though cut short by a rare genetic blood disorder, Anyorisiome, with complications from a stroke and seizure, was lived with a vibrancy and love that many will never forget.

Raised with the love and guidance of her mother, Virginia Cartwright, and her stepdad Michael Cartwright, who stepped into the role when she was just four years old, Ksi grew up surrounded by a boisterous and loving family. Her brothers Rusty Sinkler, David Hayes, JR and Douglas Kazarian, along with her sisters Angela Hamberg, Brandy Tullis, and Bridget Heffner, were part of a lively household that also included her grandmother, Victoria Sinkler, James Sinkler and a host of aunts, uncles, cousins, and several adopted siblings who were just as much her brothers and sisters. The family tree was more like a family party bus, and Ksi was always the life of it.

Ksi's education journey began in Allegan and then transitioned to Holland Public, where she likely learned less about math and more about how to be the heart and soul of any room she entered. Her career as a nanny and caregiver spanned over 15 years, where she dedicated herself to a family so deeply that the youngest even called her mom. Ksi chose not to have children of her own, fearing passing on her genetic condition, but instead, she poured her love into her nieces and nephews, telling them, "I love you more than more." It was a sentiment as infinite as her capacity to care.

Anyone who knew Ksi knew that she was an outdoorsy soul with a penchant for fishing, camping, and swimming. She could often be found gazing at the stars, watching for falling ones, or sitting by a bombfire with a cold molca coffee in hand, the unofficial beverage of good vibes and starlit conversations. Music was her companion, with a special fondness for country tunes and a bit of karaoke. "Sinners Like Me" by Eric Church was her go-to duet with her big brother, where they'd playfully vie for the title of 'Family's Top Crooner.'

Her best friend from the age of 11, Ashley Watkins, was her partner in crime—two peas in a pod who never let a little thing like adulthood dissolve their unbreakable bond. From getting grounded together to sharing lifelong secrets, they were inseparable, a testament to the enduring power of friendship.

Ksi's time in Georgia and Arkansas may have been short, but it was just another chapter in the adventure book she was always writing. Returning home to Michigan in November 2023, she rekindled her connections and continued to be the family and friend magnet she had always been. Her big brown eyes weren't just the windows to her soul; they were an open invitation to join her on a journey of laughter and love.

While her passing leaves a void that can never be filled, Ksi's memory will live on in every chuckle, every bonfire, and every starry night shared among those who loved her. Her spirit was as contagious as her smile, and she had a knack for warming hearts faster than a campfire on a chilly Michigan evening.

Ksi's legacy is one of joy, of seizing every moment, and of loving fiercely without reservation. She was a bright light in the lives of all who knew her, and though her song may have ended, the melody will linger on. So, let's raise a glass—or a molca coffee—to Ksi, whose love and laughter will echo in our hearts forever.