Laura Ann Hixson

Retired school teacher and beloved aunt, sister and friend Laura Ann Hixson’s love of life didn’t come to an end with her death. Laura passed away on August 27, 2023 at the age of 80 after a short but courageous battle with cancer, and her loved ones will continue to honor her legacy by living their lives to the fullest.

Laura was born May 15, 1943 in Paris, Arkansas. A popular student at Paris High School, she played clarinet in the school band, was a drum majorette and was valedictorian of her senior class. Laura received her bachelor’s degree in education from the University of Arkansas Little Rock and her master’s degree in education from East Texas State University. Laura’s pride was in her work as a physical education teacher and in her students; she was awarded “Teacher of the Year” at Kennedy Elementary and shared her passion for learning and fitness with thousands of children over the years. After retiring from teaching, she carried her talents to the Girl Scouts for several years before enjoying the perks of “real” retirement.

Laura’s greatest joy in life was family. She cherished time spent in her hometown of Paris with her own parents and aunts and uncles, she enjoyed vacations and visits with her many out-of-town nieces and nephews, and she never missed a baseball game, dance recital, weekend at the lake or Arkansas Razorback football game.

She had an uncanny ability to remember people’s faces and names, even decades later. Once you met Laura Hixson, you always felt important. That is a gift the world won’t soon forget. Laura is preceded in death by her mother and father, Laura Beatrice “Sister Girl” and Raymond Hixson, and her brother, William “Will” Walker. She is survived by her sisters, Elizabeth “Libby” Thweatt and Virginia “Ginger” Ridout, and countless nieces, nephews and greats.

A celebration of life service for Laura will be held Tuesday, September 5, 2023 at 10:00 am at Central Christian Church, Texarkana, Texas. The family will hold a visitation Monday, September 4, 2023 from 6:00-8:00 pm at East Funeral Home, 602 Olive St, Texarkana, Texas.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to The Livestrong Foundation or Donate Life America.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.eastfuneralhomes.com.