Laura was born on December 24, 1933, in Belzoni, Mississippi, to James and Lorette Millwood. In 1951, she graduated from Belzoni High School as valedictorian. Laura earned her nursing degree from the Mississippi Baptist School of Nursing in 1954, became a registered nurse, and later joined the military.
Laura served in the United States Air Force for 11 years, achieving the rank of Captain. Throughout her time in the military, she held the position of registered nurse, providing care to fellow service members.
After her military service, Laura went on to make a difference in numerous lives as a Home Health nurse, and later, at the G.V. "Sonny" Montgomery VA Medical Center Nursing Home. She never sought recognition or gratitude. Knowing she made a positive impact was all the recognition she needed. Laura consistently demonstrated kindness, compassion, and generosity, both in her home and in her professional capacity as a nurse.
Laura was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Charles"Chuck" Heller; parents, Loretta and Jim Millwood; sisters, Bessie Ainsworth and Helen Coggins.
Survivors include her son, Jason Heller and his wife Shelley of Flowood, Mississippi; daughter, Amy Ham and her husband Jimmy of Richland, Mississippi; grandchildren, Payton Ham, Garrett Heller, Lauren Ham Brown and her husband Austin Brown.
A Graveside Service will be held at Glenwood Memorial Park in Richland, Mississippi on Monday, January 12, 2026, at 2:00pm.
