Jeanne Lairamore

Jeanne Lairamore, age 83, of Fort Smith, Arkansas, entered her heavenly home on May 18, 2025, surrounded by the love of her family. She was born on November 16, 1941, in Fort Smith to John and Bessie (Hagan) Woodruff.

Jeanne dedicated 37 years of service to Whirlpool and was an active member of the union during her time there. A devoted member of Harvest Time Church for over 50 years, Jeanne also worked at the church for more than a decade, contributing faithfully to the community she loved. After retiring from Whirlpool, she continued to serve others through her work with Fort Smith Public Schools as a bus monitor and later in customer service at Kohl’s.

Faith was the cornerstone of Jeanne’s life. She had a generous spirit and a heart for people, and she never met a stranger. Jeanne was known for her warmth, kindness, and especially her cooking; her fried pies and carrot cakes were legendary among family and friends. Above all, Jeanne was fiercely devoted to her family, always present, always loving, and always giving.

Jeanne was preceded in death by her loving parents, her brother George Woodruff, and her sister-in-law Linda Woodruff.

She leaves behind a legacy of faith, love, and devotion that lives on in her children: John Lairamore and his wife Anne of Alma, Arkansas; Mary Steely and her husband Jawayne of Roland, Oklahoma; and Larry Lairamore of Huntington, Arkansas. Known affectionately as “Granny,” she was cherished by her grandchildren: Brandon, Chelsea, Lacey, Alex, Dylan, Whitney, Austin, and Kassie, and by her 17 great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild. Also carrying forward her spirit are her sister Faye Rice and husband Richard, sister-in-law Sharon Woodruff, and a host of nieces and nephews who loved her as a grandmother figure.

Jeanne’s unwavering faith touched everyone she met. Her love for Christ was evident in how she nurtured her family, served her church, and welcomed others with open arms. She leaves behind not only loved ones, but a powerful example of a life lived for God.

The family will welcome friends for a visitation in loving memory of Jeanne on Tuesday, May 20, 2025, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Edwards Funeral Home, located at 201 N 12th St, Fort Smith, AR 72901. A celebration of Jeanne’s life and faith will be held on Wednesday, May 21, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. at Harvest Time Church, 3100 Briar Cliff Ave, Fort Smith, AR 72908. Jeanne will be laid to rest at Woodlawn Memorial Park following the service.