Della Jane Laylin

Della Jane Laylin (Merriett) of New Brighton, Minnesota, formerly of St. Cloud, Minnesota, passed away on Wednesday, February 19th, 2025 at the age of 80. She was born on October 22, 1944, in St. Peter and grew up in Mountain Lake and South St. Paul, MN. She graduated from South St. Paul High School in 1963.

Della married the love of her life, Larry Laylin, on June 19,1965. They had two children. She was a loving caregiver her entire life. First, as a daycare provider for over 30 years, then owning and operating a Senior Assisted Living home with Larry. Her joy in life was taking care of other's needs and for that she will be warmly remembered.

As a young woman Della excelled at tole painting, arts, and crafts. She also restored antique furniture and collected Hummel figurines. She enjoyed going to sporting events and activities that involved her children and eventually her grandchildren. Della had a lifelong love of animals, especially Golden Retrievers. Her home always had at least one dog. Later in life she enjoyed a good game of Bingo, explaining to all that would listen, she won because she still remembered her letters and numbers.

She was preceded in death by her father, Joseph Merriett; mother, Helen Merriett (Peters); her husband, Larry Laylin; and numerous well-loved dogs and cats.

Della is survived by her daughter, Andrea (Greg); son, Cory (Stacy); and five grandchildren, Josh, Amanda, Luc, Casy, and Bode.

The family would like to thank Benedictine Innsbruck for the kindness and compassion they showed Della the past five years.

A private funeral will be held later this year in Mountain Lake, MN where Della will be interred.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in her honor to Benedictine Innsbruck, 1101 Black Oak Dr, New Brighton, MN 55112.