She was born in Highland, IL, and attended schools in Greenville, Belleville, and Chatham, IL. She earned her bachelor’s degree from Sangamon State University (now UIS) in Springfield.
Laura began her long career with the State of Illinois working as a clerk in the Secretary of State’s office. She retired as Director of Human Resources for the Office of the Attorney General.
Laura was an avid reader who shared her love for books with everyone. Her only rule was that she didn’t want the book back – she would tell you to pass it on. She was also a prolific gardener. If there was an empty pot or a piece of ground, Laura would put a plant in it. She loved to cook, but her specialty was baking for her family and friends. Her cakes were legendary and the highlight of many celebrations.
Most of all, Laura loved to have fun. She had a large group of friends with whom she shared her love of margaritas and traveling – especially to the beach. Her best friends, though, were her sisters. The three of them shared many an adventure.
Laura was preceded in death by her mother, Margaret Oakley; and stepfather, Jack Oakley.
She is survived by her loving and devoted husband of 32 years, Jeff; daughter, Jessica (Mike) Wolcott of Michigan; son, Ryan Mehan (Kaitlyn Downey) of Springfield; granddaughters, Iris and Violet Mehan of Springfield; father, Gerald (Donna) Hampton of Greenville; siblings, Susan (Craig) Burns of Springfield, Mary (Dan) Schick of Marathon, Florida, and Eric Hampton of Greenville; as well as many aunts, uncles, nieces, and nephews.
The family would like to thank Laura’s many wonderful friends whose love and support helped her through the many ups and downs of the past six years. She cherished each and every one of you.
A Memorial Gathering for family and friends will be held on Saturday, April 13 from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m., at Butler Funeral Home- Springfield, 900 S. 6th St., Springfield.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society cancer.org/dignitymemorial.
