Alexis Iyanna Thornton, 13, of Brainerd, died by suicide on July 10, 2026, at her home.

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To know Lexi was to know joy.

A Gathering to Celebrate Lexi's Life will be held Friday, July 24, 2026 at 3:00 p.m. at Whipple Beach in Baxter.

Lexi was born on June 30, 2013, the beloved daughter of Chantel Smith and Brent Willis.

To know Lexi was to know joy. She was full of life, laughter, and a heart that naturally made room for everyone. She had a gift for noticing the new kid at school, welcoming them in, and making sure no one felt left out. That kindness made her a true social butterfly and a friend to so many.

Lexi's laugh was unforgettable—big, loud, and maybe even a little obnoxious—but it was completely contagious. She also had big feet and an even heavier foot. Whether she was hopping on anything with a motor or convincing her grandparents that the minibike needed to go a little faster (and fit her a little better), Lexi was always ready for the next adventure.

She loved being involved and stayed active in choir, dance, and volleyball. She even claimed math was one of her favorite subjects—but we're still not entirely convinced that was true.

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Lexi's laugh was unforgettable—big, loud, and maybe even a little obnoxious—but it was completely contagious.

Lexi had a vocabulary all her own, filled with "Lexisms" like "Bro" and "Ye." She had an unmatched sweet tooth, especially when chocolate chip cookies were around, and she could make a plate disappear in record time. She loved to dance, sing, borrow (or steal) her brother's gaming chair, and fill every room with laughter.

Lexi's life ended far too soon. She had so much more to experience, and those who love her are left heartbroken by this unimaginable loss.

While we may never fully understand the pain that led Lexi to end her life, we hope her story inspires greater compassion within our community. Bullying is never acceptable. Mental health struggles often hide behind bright smiles, loud laughter, and the appearance that everything is okay. We encourage everyone to choose kindness, check in on one another, and never be afraid to ask for help or offer it.

Lexi's memory will forever live on in the hearts of those who loved her. She will forever be 13 and forever be missed by her mother, Chantel Smith; father, Brent Willis; siblings, Brent Jr. and Jayda; grandparents, Sheila and Scott Smith; uncles, Hayden (Faith) Smith and Thomas Smith; great-aunt, Debbie (Stan) Berndt; great-grandmothers, Marlene Smith and Doris Berndt; along with countless extended family members, classmates, teammates, and friends.

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While we may never fully understand the pain that led Lexi to end her life, we hope her story inspires greater compassion within our community.

She was welcomed into heaven by her grandparents, Lena Strickland and James Willis; and her great-grandfathers, Karl and Steve.

If you or someone you love is struggling, please know that you are not alone. Help is available, hope is real, and asking for help is a sign of strength. Reach out to a trusted friend, family member, teacher, counselor, or healthcare professional. A single conversation can make all the difference. In Lexi's memory, choose kindness, check in on one another, and remind the people you love that they matter.

To support Lexi's family at this time, please copy and paste the following:

https://www.gofundme.com/f/support-for-alexis-iyanna-thorntons-family