Kailey Brandmaier, a dedicated registered nurse at BayCare, West Central Florida’s largest health care provider, has left her family, friends, and colleagues grappling with profound grief. Kailey, known for her selflessness and unwavering kindness, touched countless lives, both in her professional role and through the deep connections she nurtured with those around her. Her death has created a void that words can scarcely fill.
Kailey’s friend, who shared a bond that transcended time and distance, reflected on their cherished memories together. “Wow, this hurts,” they wrote. “I’m still trying to wrap my head around the fact that you’re not here. I’ve been trying to find the words all day and still really can’t.” Their friendship was one of those rare relationships where time apart never diminished the connection. “When we saw each other, it was just like picking up where we left off,” they shared.
The memories flowed effortlessly—soccer practices at USF, where Kailey would go out of her way to give rides, study sessions that turned into laughter-filled hangouts, and a shared love for Ariana Grande that saw them attending four concerts together. “We always joked about getting floor seats for her next tour, no matter how much time passed,” they recalled. Even the challenges of their friendship, like the tumultuous year they spent as roommates in 2019, were remembered with a mix of tears and laughter. “Sometimes being best friends doesn’t mean being good roommates,” they wrote, adding a touch of humor to the pain.
As life’s responsibilities grew, their time together became less frequent, but the love and appreciation they held for each other never wavered. “I wish we saw each other more, but we always made the most of the small pockets of time we had,” they said. Whether it was a quick hangout before Kailey’s shift or hours spent with her mom discussing politics over wine, every moment was treasured.
Kailey’s friend expressed gratitude for the honesty and love they shared. “I’m happy we told each other how important we were and still are to each other,” they wrote. “You are and forever will be family to me.” The pain of losing Kailey is immeasurable. “My heart is so broken now, I truly don’t know what to do,” they admitted.
Kailey’s impact extended far beyond her immediate circle. As a nurse, she dedicated her life to caring for others, embodying the same compassion and selflessness that defined her personal relationships. Her loss is felt deeply by her colleagues at BayCare, who remember her as a beacon of kindness and dedication.
To those who knew her, Kailey was more than a friend or a nurse—she was a light in their lives. “Anyone who knew you in this life was so, so lucky,” her friend wrote. “It’s not fair you were taken away from us so soon.”
As the community mourns, Kailey’s memory lives on in the hearts of those she touched. “You are always in my heart, Kailey,” her friend shared. “I love you so much.”
Kailey Brandmaier’s legacy of love, kindness, and selflessness will continue to inspire all who were fortunate enough to know her. She may be gone, but her spirit remains a guiding light for those she left behind.