She left behind her beloved husband, Todd; two sons, Scott (Keri) and Stephen; a grandson, Oliver; her daddy, Tom (Nancy); three brothers, Greg (Angie), Jimmy (Sherry), and Chris (Valerie); three cats, Mr. Hands, Mandarin, and Foxy; and more nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends to count.
She was preceded in death by her momma, Nancy, and three cats, Freak, Daisy, and Kitty.
Laurie was born in Atlanta and raised in Mableton, the only girl of four children. She was lovingly known as “Looney” to her dad and brothers, a nickname, they would tell you, she came by honestly. Laurie entered into motherhood early, having Scott, her oldest son, at the age of 18. She loved being a mother so much that three years later, she brought Stephen into the world. From the age of 18 until the moment of her death, her sons were the center of her universe.
Laurie’s world changed once again on July 27, 2002, when she met Todd. They instantly connected and went on to spend the next 21 years laughing, loving, exploring, and growing together. Their love was palpable and true. Six years ago, Laurie’s heart was cracked wide open when her grandson, Oliver, was born. She was never happier than when she was with him. Their frequent trips to the arcade and watching him play Todd’s drums in the basement filled her with immense pride and joy.
Laurie was a Foo Fighters super fan, having seen them five times, many of them from the front row, thanks to her willingness to stand in line for hours for that coveted spot. She was nothing if not a woman constantly in search of a good time and a memorable experience. Outside of her love of music, Laurie was a lifelong Atlanta Braves fan and her love of NASCAR was a shared interest with many of her friends and family. Whether she was watching a race on TV or from the grandstands at Talladega, which she and Todd did many times over the years, or catching a Braves game at Turner Field, she was in her happy place.
Everyone who loved Laurie is asked to honor her in their own way – listening to a Foo Fighters song on full blast, adopting a cat from a local shelter, or raising a glass of your favorite drink would be quite a fitting tribute.
Laurie died a loved and important woman to a lot of people. She will be thought of often and missed greatly.
The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Friday, May 26, 2023 from 5:00 pm until 8:00 pm. A funeral service will be held in the Rosehaven Chapel with Pastor Sam Braswell officiating on Saturday, May 27, 2023 at 2:00 pm. Following the service, Laurie’s wishes to be cremated will be honored.
Those who wish to express condolences or share a special memory may do so online at www.whitleygarner.com
Arrangements by: Whitley-Garner at Rosehaven Funeral Home, Douglasville, GA 30134, 770-942-4246
