Remembering Laurel: A Look at Recent Obituaries
Obituaries are more than just death announcements; they’re a vital part of any community. They publicly document a person’s life and passing, sharing important details with the wider world. Obituaries provide a space for family and friends to announce the news and celebrate the life of someone they loved.
Like any town, Laurel, Mississippi, uses obituaries to connect its residents to the lives and legacies of those who have passed away. These announcements are valuable for genealogy, historical records, and the collective memory of the community.
This article will explore recent Laurel, MS obituaries, highlighting the diverse lives and contributions of people in the area. We’ll examine common themes that appear in these obituaries, such as career accomplishments, family life, and community involvement.
Remembering Ottie Weems Bankston
Ottie Weems Bankston, born May 24, 1937, passed away on March 24, 2025, at the age of 87. His life serves as an example of dedication to his profession and community.
Mr. Bankston spent 35 years working at BellSouth, contributing his skills and expertise to the telecommunications industry. After his retirement, he remained active in the Telephone Pioneers, showcasing his continued connection to his former colleagues and the field he dedicated so much of his life to.
His obituary reflects a long career and commitment to the telephone industry, marking the passing of a respected member of the Laurel community.
Remembering Mary Jacqueline Ekes Meyers
Many recent Laurel, MS obituaries mention Mary Jacqueline Ekes Meyers, who passed away on March 24, 2025, at the age of 94. For over 35 years, Mary dedicated her career to the students of Laurel City Schools as a guidance counselor.
Known for her kindness and ability to connect with young people, Mary touched the lives of countless students in the Laurel community. Her obituary reflects the deep and lasting impact she had on the lives of those she mentored, a testament to her empathy and unwavering support.
Remembering Robert Earl West, Sr.
Obituaries offer us a glimpse into the lives of those who have passed. Let’s take a moment to honor the memory of Robert Earl West, Sr., whose obituary recently appeared in the Laurel, MS, area.
Robert was born August 14, 1960, and passed away on March 20, 2025. He spent his working life as a truck driver, traveling the highways and byways.
Beyond his work, Robert found joy in the simple pleasures of life. He loved spending time outdoors, hunting and fishing. He also had a passion for country music. His obituary paints a picture of a man who appreciated nature and the sounds of his favorite tunes.
Remembering Marilyn Sharlene Smith Wagner
Marilyn Sharlene Smith Wagner, a beloved wife, mother, and grandmother, passed away on March 19, 2025.
She lived a life filled with love for her family and a passion for exploration. Marilyn cherished her time spent traveling, particularly her adventures in the Caribbean, where she embraced the beauty and culture of the islands.
Marilyn will be deeply missed by her family and all who knew her. Her warmth, kindness, and adventurous spirit will be fondly remembered.
Remembering Daniel Preston Roney
Daniel Preston Roney, a member of Pleasant Ridge Baptist Church and a veteran of the Army Reserve, passed away on March 18, 2025.
Like many obituaries, Mr. Roney’s reflects a life dedicated to faith and service. He found community in his church and fulfilled his duty to his country through his military service. While specific details of his life may be private, his obituary serves as a reminder of his commitment to the values he held dear. His memory lives on through those who knew him and shared in his faith and service.
Honoring Erma Lee Stennett
Erma Lee Stennett, born March 23, 1930, passed away on March 15, 2025. She will be remembered for her career as a cosmetologist and her unusual hobby.
After retirement, Erma developed a unique passion for horticulture. She became known for her work hybridizing daylilies. She grew and sold them to local gardeners and enthusiasts.
Erma’s obituary highlights her love for these flowers, capturing a unique aspect of her life and passions.
Celebrating Larry Lowe’s Life
Larry Lowe, born December 16, 1943, passed away on March 14, 2025. His obituary tells the story of a life well-lived, full of service and passion.
Military and Professional Life
Larry proudly served his country in the U.S. Air Force. After his military service, he dedicated his career to the dental field.
Interests and Hobbies
Larry was a passionate sportsman, spending many hours pursuing his love for outdoor activities.
A Life of Service and Passion
Larry’s life exemplifies service to his country and a deep appreciation for the natural world. His memory will be cherished by all who knew him.
Remembering David Eugene Knight
Obituaries offer a brief glimpse into a life. They highlight the relationships and moments that mattered most. David Eugene Knight’s obituary paints a picture of a man who loved his family.
Born on July 14, 1970, David passed away on March 14, 2025. He was a husband, a father, and a brother. The obituary makes it clear that he cherished spending time with his loved ones. The focus is not on achievements or accolades, but on the importance of family in David’s life.
These simple words offer comfort to those who knew and loved David, and they serve as a reminder of the enduring power of family bonds.
Honoring Charles Michael “Chuck” Edwards
Charles Michael “Chuck” Edwards, born August 11, 1944, passed away on March 13, 2025. His life was marked by an entrepreneurial spirit and a deep love for the outdoors.
Entrepreneurial Spirit
For over 40 years, Chuck was the owner of Tom & Calico Cat, a testament to his dedication and business acumen.
Love for the Outdoors
Chuck’s passion extended beyond the business world; he found solace and joy in nature.
A Legacy of Business and Nature
Chuck’s obituary reflects a life well-lived, characterized by his entrepreneurial spirit and his passion for the natural world. He will be remembered for his contributions to the Laurel community and his love for the outdoors.
Celebrating Ida Jean Daniels’ Life
Obituaries offer a glimpse into the lives of those we’ve lost. For example, the obituary of Ida Jean Daniels, who passed away on March 11, 2025, tells a story of faith and hard work.
Born on February 19, 1936, Ida was a member of Pleasant Home Baptist Church. She worked at Fine Brothers Matison and Laurel Machine and Foundry, contributing to the Laurel community through her work.
Her obituary serves as a reminder of her dedication to both her faith and her career, leaving behind a legacy of service and commitment.
Remembering Charline Esther Quinn
Charline Esther Quinn, age 84, passed away on March 8, 2025. She resided in Louin, Mississippi, under the loving care of her daughter. Before that, she lived in St. Louis, Missouri.
Charline dedicated her career to the Little Sisters of the Poor, where she eventually retired.
Her life was deeply rooted in her faith and family. Her obituary serves as a testament to the connections she forged and the love she shared throughout her 84 years. Details about the memorial service and where to send flowers or make donations can be found at [insert link to full obituary here].
Putting It All Together
Reading through the obituaries from Laurel, Mississippi, certain themes emerge. The people memorialized in these pages were dedicated to their families, hard-working in their professions, and deeply involved in their community.
Many had long and successful careers, contributing to the local economy and making a difference in the lives of those around them. Whether they worked in education, healthcare, manufacturing, or the service industry, they left their mark on Laurel.
These obituaries remind us of the rich and varied lives that make up the fabric of Laurel, MS. They offer glimpses into the history and culture of the community, showing us who the people were and what they valued.
As people pass away, their stories become part of the collective memory of Laurel. Obituaries play a vital role in preserving these stories for future generations, ensuring that the lives of those who shaped the community are not forgotten.