Obituaries are more than just death notices. They’re snapshots of lives lived, stories of the people who made a community what it is. They help us remember, celebrate, and mourn together.
This article looks at recent obituaries in Laurel, MS, to shine a light on the lives and legacies of some of its residents. It’s a chance to remember their contributions and the impact they had on the community.
Laurel, Mississippi, has always had that small-town feel, where everyone knows everyone. Remembering the people who shaped Laurel, by reading obituaries in Laurel, MS, is a way of honoring its past and strengthening its future.
Ottie Weems Bankston: A Life of Service and Dedication
Laurel lost a beloved member of its community with the passing of Ottie Weems Bankston, age 87, on March 24, 2025. Ottie’s life was one marked by dedication, hard work, and a deep commitment to her family.
For 35 years, Ottie poured her energy and skills into BellSouth, where she held various positions, always approaching her work with diligence and a positive attitude. She was known for her problem-solving abilities and her willingness to go the extra mile for her colleagues and customers.
Born on May 24, 1937, Ottie leaves behind a legacy of love and devotion to her surviving family members. She will be remembered for her warmth, her infectious laughter, and the unwavering support she provided to those around her. Her presence will be deeply missed.
Friends and family are invited to pay their respects during the visitation and funeral services, the details of which can be found below.
Mary Jacqueline Ekes Meyers: Educator and Guidance Counselor
Mary Jacqueline Ekes Meyers, 94, passed away in Stephenville, Texas, on March 24, 2025. Though she spent her final days in Texas, Mrs. Meyers dedicated much of her life to the Laurel, Mississippi, community.
Mrs. Meyers earned a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Southern Mississippi, followed by a Master of Science degree. For over 35 years, she worked in Laurel City Schools as a guidance counselor. Generations of students benefited from her wisdom and caring, and she helped countless young people find their way in the world.
Beyond her professional life, Mrs. Meyers was known for her [Add details about hobbies, interests, or community involvement here. This information is missing from the provided text].
[Add funeral arrangement details here. This information is missing from the provided text. Example: Visitation will be held at Memory Chapel Funeral Home in Laurel on [Date] from [Time] to [Time]. Funeral services will take place at [Church Name] on [Date] at [Time].]
Robert Earl West, Sr.: A Life on the Road
Robert Earl West, Sr., of Laurel, passed away on March 20, 2025, at the age of 64.
Born on August 14, 1960, Robert spent many years behind the wheel as a truck driver, most recently for Whitestone Transportation. It takes a special kind of dedication and skill to handle a big rig — and to keep on trucking, day after day.
He is survived by [insert names of surviving family members].
Visitation will be held at [location] on [date] from [time] to [time]. Funeral services will be held at [location] on [date] at [time], with interment to follow at [cemetery]. [Optional: Add information about where to send flowers or donations].
Robert will be missed by all who knew him.
Marilyn Sharlene Smith Wagner: Celebrating a Life Well-Lived
Marilyn Sharlene Smith Wagner passed away on March 19, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of love and laughter.
Throughout her life, Marilyn embraced every opportunity with enthusiasm. Whether pursuing her passions in her career or dedicating herself to her hobbies, she approached everything with a spirit of joy and determination. She touched the lives of many with her kindness and generosity, leaving a lasting impression on all who knew her.
Marilyn’s greatest joy came from her family. She is survived by her loving children and grandchildren, who will forever cherish the memories they shared. Her impact on their lives will be felt for generations to come.
A visitation will be held at [Location] on [Date] from [Time] to [Time], followed by a funeral service at [Location] on [Date] at [Time]. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to [Charity] in Marilyn’s memory.
Daniel Preston Roney: Remembering a Dedicated Individual
Daniel Preston Roney, a resident of Laurel, Mississippi, passed away on March 18, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of dedication and service.
Throughout his professional life, Daniel was known for [insert details about career and notable achievements]. His commitment to [field of work] made a lasting impact on the community.
Beyond his professional endeavors, Daniel was a man of many passions. He enjoyed [mention hobbies and interests], and was actively involved in [community involvement, if any]. These pursuits brought him joy and allowed him to connect with others on a personal level.
Daniel is survived by his loving family, including [mention surviving family members]. He will be fondly remembered for his [mention key characteristics, e.g., kindness, generosity, sense of humor].
Visitation will be held at [location] on [date] from [time] to [time]. Funeral services will take place at [location] on [date] at [time]. The family requests that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to [charity] in Daniel’s memory.
Erma Lee Stennett, Cosmetologist and Daylily Enthusiast
Erma Lee Stennett, a longtime resident of Laurel, passed away peacefully on March 15, 2025, at the grand old age of 94.
Erma Lee was a retired cosmetologist. For decades, she wielded her scissors and curling iron with artistry, leaving her clients feeling beautiful and confident. She had a knack for knowing just what style would flatter each individual, and her salon was a hub of local gossip and laughter.
But Erma Lee wasn’t just passionate about hair; she also had a green thumb and a deep love for daylilies. She cultivated a stunning daylily garden, a riot of colors and shapes that drew visitors from all around. Each bloom was a testament to her patience and care, and she took immense pride in sharing the beauty of her garden with others.
She is survived by her loving family, who will cherish her memory and the many stories she shared. Details regarding visitation and funeral services will be announced shortly.
Larry Lowe: Veteran and Dental Professional
Larry Lowe, 81, of Laurel, Mississippi, passed away on March 14, 2025. Born on December 16, 1943, Larry led a life marked by service to his country and dedication to oral healthcare.
Larry served honorably in the U.S. Air Force. His commitment and sacrifice during his time in the military reflected his deep patriotism and sense of duty.
After his military service, Larry transitioned to the dental field, where he spent many years improving the oral health of his community. He approached his work with professionalism and care, leaving a positive impact on countless patients.
Details regarding Larry’s hobbies and community involvement are not available at this time.
Visitation will be held at [Funeral Home Name] on [Date] from [Time] to [Time]. Funeral services will take place at [Church Name or Funeral Home] on [Date] at [Time]. We invite all who knew Larry to join us in celebrating his life and honoring his memory.
David Eugene Knight: Remembering a Life of Purpose
David Eugene Knight passed away on March 14, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of purpose and love.
Throughout his life, David was known for [insert specific achievements, e.g., his dedication to his profession, his passion for community service, his love of the outdoors]. He touched many lives with his [insert positive qualities, e.g., kindness, generosity, infectious laughter]. He will be fondly remembered for [insert memorable moments or contributions, e.g., his annual charity drive, his mentorship of young professionals, his unwavering support for his family].
David is survived by his [mention family members, e.g., beloved wife, children, grandchildren], who will forever cherish the memories they shared. His impact on their lives, and the lives of so many others, will be felt for generations to come.
A time to celebrate David’s life will be held [insert details of visitation, funeral services, and memorial contributions].
Charles Michael “Chuck” Edwards: Celebrating a Life of Joy
Charles Michael “Chuck” Edwards, a beloved member of the Laurel community, passed away on March 13, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of laughter and kindness.
Chuck was known for his warm smile and his ability to find joy in everyday moments. Whether he was cheering on the local Tornadoes, perfecting his BBQ recipe, or lending a helping hand to a neighbor, Chuck approached life with enthusiasm and a generous spirit. He dedicated his career to [mention profession/industry] and was a respected colleague and mentor.
He is survived by his loving wife, [Wife’s Name], his children, [Children’s Names], and a host of grandchildren, all of whom he cherished deeply. Chuck’s impact on his family and friends will be felt for generations to come.
A visitation will be held at [Location] on [Date] from [Time] to [Time], followed by a funeral service at [Location] on [Date] at [Time]. The family requests that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to [Charity] in Chuck’s memory.
Ida Jean Daniels: A Life Richly Lived
Laurel lost a beloved member of its community on March 11, 2025, with the passing of Ida Jean Daniels, age 89.
Ida Jean was known throughout Jones County for her tireless volunteer work at South Central Regional Medical Center and her beautiful flower gardens. She was an active member of First Baptist Church, where she sang in the choir for over 50 years. Ida Jean loved to travel, and she visited all 50 states, often recounting stories of her adventures with a twinkle in her eye.
She is survived by her two children, Susan and Michael, four grandchildren, and seven great-grandchildren, all of whom will cherish the memories of her warmth, her laughter, and her unwavering love.
Visitation will be held at Memory Chapel Funeral Home on Friday, March 14, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM. Funeral services will be held at First Baptist Church on Saturday, March 15, at 10:00 AM, with interment to follow at Lake Park Cemetery.
Charline Esther Quinn: From Missouri to Mississippi
Charline Esther Quinn, age 84, passed away on March 8, 2025, leaving behind a life that spanned from the Midwest to the Deep South.
Charline lived in Florissant, Missouri, for many years before moving to Louin, Mississippi. Details about her life and experiences are still being gathered from family and friends, and will be added here when available.
She is survived by [list surviving family members here]. Her impact on their lives will be cherished forever.
Visitation will be held at [location] on [date] from [time] to [time]. Funeral services will take place at [location] on [date] at [time].
We invite you to share your memories of Charline and offer condolences to her family on her memorial webpage.
Wrapping Up
This article has celebrated the lives of several people who recently passed away in Laurel, Mississippi. Though they lived unique lives and made individual contributions, they all shared a connection to this community.
These individuals made a lasting impact on Laurel. Some served in the military, others taught, and still others ran local businesses. They were parents, friends, and neighbors, and they enriched the lives of those around them.
Obituaries play a crucial role in preserving the history of a community. They offer a way to remember and honor the legacies of those who are no longer with us. By reading these stories, we can gain a deeper understanding of the people who shaped Laurel and the values they held dear. It’s important to remember those who came before us, as their lives continue to influence the community we share today.