Elaine C Laurence

Elaine Courtney Laurence, beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and devoted servant of the Lord, passed away peacefully on March 29, 2025, at the age of 80. A lifelong example of faith, kindness, and dedication, she will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

Elaine was born in Birmingham, Alabama, on January 9, 1945. In Birmingham, Elaine would shine the light of Christ for the duration of her life. Her light shone brightest among her family, both physically and in faith. In 1968, she married the love of her life, Fred Laurence. They would enjoy a decade of blissful time together before proceeding Elaine in death. During their marriage, Elaine and Fred would have three children. Despite being a single mother, she always made sure Teresa, Gayla, and Ethan had everything they needed, never letting hardship stand in the way of her love and devotion. Through every challenge, she provided not just for their physical needs but also nurtured them with the admonition of the Lord. But beyond being a virtuous wife and loving mother, she was a devout servant of Jesus. Elaine, prior to her death, was a member of the Edwards Lake Church of Christ (formerly known as 77th Street), where she faithfully served as a Bible class teacher for more than 57 years. She had a deep love for studying God’s Word and was passionate about sharing it with others. Her commitment to teaching and encouraging others in their spiritual journey left an enduring legacy in the lives of many. Elaine was also a dedicated professional, working as a cytotechnologist and lab supervisor. She was a graduate of the University of Montevallo and the University of Louisville, and she approached her work with the same diligence and care that she showed in every aspect of her life.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Clay Courtney and Pauline Adair Courtney, her brother, Lanning Courtney, and her beloved husband, Fred Laurence. Though she mourned their loss, her faith in God’s promises never wavered.

Elaine’s memory is cherished by her children, Teresa Laurence Crow, Gayla Laurence Steiner (Dave), and Ethan Laurence; her grandchildren, Carson Crow (Lauren), Madison May (Henderson), Jackson Steiner, and Avery Steiner; and her great-granddaughter, Ruthie May. She loved her family deeply and delighted in every moment spent with them.

Her gentle spirit, unwavering faith, and boundless love for others will forever remain in the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing her. While we grieve her passing, we rejoice in the assurance that she is at peace in the presence of the Lord she so faithfully served.

A visitation for Elaine will be held Friday, April 4, 2025 from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at Ridout's Trussville Chapel, 1500 Gadsden Hwy, Birmingham, AL 35235, followed by a celebration of life at 11:00 AM.

Psalm 34:8, “Taste and see that the Lord is good; blessed is the one who takes refuge in him.”