Laura Shannon Keahey Ross

Laura was born in Newfoundland, Canada, in 1958 while her father was stationed there, beginning a lifetime of travel and adventure. She was named in honor of her grandmother, Laura Ethel (McGill) Keahey, and her great-grandmother, Laura Helen (Newland) McGill.

As a young child, Laura lived in New Orleans and Shreveport, Louisiana; Columbia, Missouri; and Tyler, Texas, before her family settled in Waco, Texas, where she attended Richfield High School.

Following graduation, Laura moved to England to study at Newbold College. During her time there, she embraced every opportunity to travel throughout Europe, beginning a lifelong love of exploring new places. She later returned to Texas to continue her education but would again make Europe her home, living in both England and Holland. Throughout her life, she also lived in Austin, Belton, Plano, Wyoming, and San Antonio, always carrying with her an adventurous spirit and a curiosity about the world.

From an early age, Laura was adventurous, academically gifted, and a fabulous cook. She was big-hearted and deeply loved her family and friends. She delighted in parties and gatherings, and her charisma and booming laughter were unforgettable. Whether preparing a memorable meal, sharing stories, or embarking on a new adventure, Laura had a gift for bringing people together.

Laura dedicated her professional life to nursing and public health. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Texas Woman’s University and later received her Master of Public Health from The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston. She served others with compassion throughout her career, combining intelligence, warmth, and a genuine desire to improve the lives of those around her.

After retiring, Laura enjoyed living in Wyoming before eventually settling in San Antonio to be closer to family. Although health challenges in her later years prevented her from living the active and engaged life she had once enjoyed, she continued to cherish lively conversations with family and friends. Her adventurous spirit, wit, and generous heart never diminished.

Above all of her accomplishments, Laura’s greatest pride and joy were her son and five beloved grandchildren. She treasured every moment spent with them and never missed an opportunity to proudly brag about each of them.

Laura was preceded in death by her parents, Dr. Scott Paul Keahey and Cleo Beth (Nowlin) Keahey; her infant daughter, Christina Maria Leune; her infant son, Robert Nicholas Leune; and her husband, Marcus Lamar Ross III.

She is survived by her son, Dr. Scott Leune and his wife, Cassandra; her sisters, Kimberly Barron and her husband, Paul; Karen Ellis; and Heather Bledsoe and her husband, Robert; and by her five cherished grandchildren: Sophia, Ethan, Colin, Christian, and Catalina Leune.

Laura also leaves behind her beloved nieces and nephews: Dr. Heather Clinton and her husband, Sean; Amanda Windle and her husband, Jonathan; Nicholas Ellis and his wife, Emily; Steven Ellis; David Bledsoe and his wife, Ara; and Logan Scout Bledsoe.

Laura’s adventurous spirit, generous heart, infectious laughter, and unwavering love for her family and friends will be remembered always. Though her absence will be profoundly felt, the memories she created and the love she shared will continue to live on in the hearts of those who knew her.

The family will receive guests from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. Tuesday, August 11, 2026, at Porter Loring Mortuary, 1101 McCullough Avenue, with a funeral service to follow at 10:00 a.m.

Interment will take place at 12:30 p.m. in Mission Burial Park South, 1700 SE Military Drive.