Remembering Lives in Laurel, Mississippi
Obituaries are more than just announcements of a death; they’re a public record of a life lived. They offer a window into a person’s contributions, the relationships they cherished, and the impact they had on their community. They also provide practical information about upcoming funeral arrangements and memorial services.
This article focuses on Laurel, Mississippi obituaries and those from the surrounding areas. We’ll explore the lives and legacies of individuals who contributed to the unique character of this region.
We’ll examine the key details commonly found in these obituaries, including personal histories, professional achievements, family connections, and the ways these individuals were involved in their communities. The goal is to honor their memories and the mark they left behind.
Understanding the Components of a Laurel Obituary
Laurel, Mississippi obituaries typically follow a standard format, providing essential details about the deceased’s life and arrangements for services. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect to find:
Biographical Information
Obituaries usually start with the full name of the deceased and their age at the time of death. For example, you might see something like, “Ottie Weems Bankston, age 87…”
The date and place of death are included, as are details about the person’s birth, including the date and location.
Family and Relationships
Information about the deceased’s spouse, children, and other close family members is commonly included. An example might be: “David Eugene Knight, married 31 years, four children…”
The names of parents and siblings are often listed as well, to provide a broader family context.
Funeral and Memorial Service Information
Specific details about the funeral or memorial service, including the date, time, and location, are essential for those who wish to attend.
Information about visitation or viewing hours is also provided. Many obituaries suggest charitable donations in lieu of flowers, too.
Professional and educational history
An obituary often includes details about the person’s work life, as well as any degrees or certifications they earned.
Career achievements
Obituaries may highlight a person’s career path and any significant accomplishments they achieved in their work life. For example, Ottie Weems Bankston worked for BellSouth Telephone Company for 35 years, while Robert Earl West, Sr., spent his working life as a truck driver for Whitestone Transportation. Charles Michael “Chuck” Edwards owned Tom & Calico Cat for 40 years.
The obituary may also mention any notable contributions or recognitions the person earned during their career.
Educational background
Details about the schools and universities the person attended are often included in their obituary. For instance, Marilyn Sharlene Smith Wagner attended Heidelberg High School, and Daniel Preston Roney went to Pleasant Ridge School and Calhoun High School.
The obituary usually lists any degrees or certifications the person earned. Mary Jacqueline Ekes Meyers, for example, held both a Bachelor of Science and a Master of Science degree.
Community Involvement and Personal Interests
Obituaries often paint a picture of the deceased’s life beyond their family and career, highlighting their connections to the community and the activities that brought them joy.
Church and Religious Affiliations
Many obituaries note the individual’s involvement in religious organizations and activities. This might include membership in a particular church, participation in religious groups, or volunteer work within the religious community. These affiliations often reflect the person’s values and the importance of faith in their life.
Hobbies and Interests
A glimpse into the passions that fueled the deceased is often provided through a description of their hobbies and interests. Whether it was gardening, painting, fishing, or collecting stamps, these details add a personal touch to the obituary and reveal what brought them pleasure. For example, the obituary for Erma Lee Stennett notes that she operated Reedy Creek Daylily Gardens for two decades, showcasing her love for horticulture.
Participation in clubs, societies, or other organizations is also frequently mentioned, demonstrating their engagement with like-minded individuals and their commitment to shared interests.
Volunteer Work
Acts of service and charitable contributions are often recognized in obituaries. This might include volunteering at a local food bank, participating in community clean-up efforts, or supporting specific causes. These details showcase the deceased’s compassion and their desire to make a positive impact on the world around them.
Notable Laurel, MS Obituaries: Case Studies
The obituaries published in Laurel, Mississippi, reflect the lives and contributions of people from all walks of life. Here are a few examples:
Mary Jacqueline Ekes Meyers: A Life Dedicated to Education
Mary Jacqueline Ekes Meyers spent more than 35 years working as a guidance counselor in the Laurel City Schools. She earned a Bachelor of Science and a Master of Science degree.
Erma Lee Stennett: From Cosmetologist to Daylily Gardener
Erma Lee Stennett was a retired cosmetologist who worked at Erma Stennett’s Hair Styles. After retiring from cosmetology, she operated Reedy Creek Daylily Gardens for two decades.
Charles Michael “Chuck” Edwards: A Local Business Owner
Charles Michael “Chuck” Edwards owned Tom & Calico Cat in Laurel for 40 years.
Larry Lowe: Serving in the Air Force and the Dental Field
Larry Lowe served in the U.S. Air Force and later worked in the dental field.
How obituaries have changed
Obituaries used to be very formal. They were more like public announcements of a death, often listing facts and accomplishments in a very straightforward way. Today, obituaries are often more personal. They might include stories, memories, and tributes from loved ones. They try to capture the person’s spirit and personality, not just the dates of their life.
The internet has also changed how we share obituaries. Online platforms make them accessible to anyone, anywhere. Many sites include guest books where people can share memories and send condolences. Some even offer virtual tributes, like lighting a candle online.
Funeral homes play a big role in helping families write and publish obituaries. They can guide families through the process and ensure the obituary is shared in the right places.
Wrapping Up
Laurel, Mississippi, obituaries do more than simply announce a death. They offer a lasting tribute to the individuals who shaped the community, preserving their stories and memories for family, friends, and future generations.
Obituaries also connect the community during times of loss, providing information about memorial services and offering a space for collective mourning and support.
In the end, Laurel, Mississippi, obituaries provide a unique glimpse into the history and heart of this Southern town, celebrating the lives of those who called it home.