Laura B Spurling

Laura graduated from Vernon High School in Mount Hermon, Louisiana in 1965.The same year, Laura moved to Chicago to be closer to her older siblings. It was there that she met and married Floyd Rose. In October 1967, she gave birth to their only daughter, Kimberly Chante Rose. Laura often joked that Kimberly belonged solely to Floyd due to their uncanny resemblance and strong-willed personalities..

In 1971, Laura and Kimberly relocated to San Diego, California, to join her late brother Elbert “Buck” Buckley Sr., who was serving in the U.S. Navy at the time. In San Diego, Laura dedicated herself to both family and career, working at her brother’s (Buck) bar and decades later retiring from a security job position to which she enjoyed as it got her out of the house during the day.

In 1985, she married Andrew Spurling, a Navy veteran, and continued building a life centered around family, hospitality, and love.

Laura had a deep love for travel and adventure, especially when it meant hitting the road with family. She often took cross-country trips from San Diego to Chicago, Louisiana, Texas, and beyond—always making time for her signature smoke breaks along the way. Although she once feared flying, she cherished the freedom and memories created during those long drives. One of her most treasured adventures was a trip to Spain and Paris with her husband Andrew.

Her final trip took place in February 2025, when she set sail on a Super Bowl cruise, combining two of her favorite things: travel and football. A passionate fan of the Chargers, she enjoyed this special experience alongside her daughter Kimberly and her vibrant social group, the Cali Divas. Laura was also a proud member of the American Legion – Dennis T. Williams Post 310, based in San Diego, CA.

More than anything, Laura loved traveling with her daughter Kimberly and being the best Nana to her three grandchildren. But it was her unique and unbreakable bond with her one and only great-grandson, Kaden, that truly lit her up. Their special relationship brought her endless joy, and she took great pride in watching him grow.

Though small in stature, Laura was mighty in spirit. Feisty and full of wit, she carried a gentle and compassionate heart. Known for her warm hospitality, she loved to host loved ones, prepare home-cooked meals, and pour glasses of champagne with a smile that lit up the room. Her home was always a sanctuary—a safe haven for anyone in need.

On Friday, April 11, 2025, Laura peacefully transitioned.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Robert and Velma Buckley; her siblings Helen Haynes, Robert Buckley Jr., Freddie Buckley Sr., Elbert Jewel “Buck” Buckley Sr., Beverly Anderson; Kimberly’s father; Floyd Rose and her husband, Andrew Spurling.

She leaves to cherish her memory her sister, Audrey Price (Elmer, deceased) of Chicago, IL; her daughter, Kimberly Rose-Jones (Anthony Jones) of San Diego; her adopted daughter, Anita Hodge of Florida; her grandchildren, Keontez Jones of Dallas,TX, Kuamane Jones(Nick Chance) of San Diego, CA, and Keela Brown (Martieno Brown) of Japan; her only great-grandson, Kaden Brown; her goddaughter, Jolisa Garrett; her best friend and sister, LaVonn “Mona” Smith and her social group; The Cali Divas, along with a host of extended family and friends.

Laura will be deeply missed, yet her legacy of strength, generosity, and love lives on in the many lives she touched.