Laurette Harris Martin's Obituary
Laurette Harris Martin, a woman of extraordinary grace, unwavering faith, and boundless love, entered this world on May 25, 1936, in Madison, Mississippi, and departed It having left an indelible mark on all who knew her. The beloved daughter of Edward Harris and Luella Moore, Laurette was one of five siblings, each a cherished branch of a close-knit family rooted deeply in faith, education, and service.
From her earliest days, Laurette embodied the virtues of determination and compassion. A gifted student, she graduated with honors from Tougaloo College in 1958, earning her Bachelor of Science Degree with a concentration in Education. Her pursuit of n knowledge never ceased; in 1977, she proudly obtained her master's degree in education and psychology from Governors State University in Chicago, Illinois. With her steadfast belief that education could transform lives, Laurette devoted her passion to the education of her children and professional career to the Chicago Public School System. She nurtured thousands of young minds with wisdom, patience, and heart. She was not merely a teacher- she was a mentor, a role model, and a guiding light.
While working in the Hollandale, Mississippi school system, fate brought Laurette to the love of her life, Walter Willis Martin, a brilliant mathematician and future IBM executive who later became a Certified Financial Planner. Their union, sealed on April 25, 1961, was a true love story-one of mutual respect, devotion, and faith. Together, they built a beautiful life, welcoming three beloved children: Sybil R. Martin, Dr. Reginald W. Martin, and Matthew Willis Martin. Their home was one of warmth, laughter, and deep, abiding love, a testament to the strength of their bond. Though Walter preceded Laurette in death in 1996, his memory remained ever-present in her heart, their shared journey an eternal treasure.
Faith was Laurette's anchor. She accepted Christ at a young age and remained a faithful servant all her life,first in Chicago as an active member of Merrill Baptist Church, and laterat New Hope Baptist Church in Jackson, Mississippi. In 1994, with the same selflessness that defined her life, Laurette and Walter retired and returned to Mississippi to care for their elderly parents. After her husband's death, her focus became the daily needs of her father, a final profound act of love and duty.
Laurette's life was a tapestry woven with vibrant threads: a passion for education, a deep devotion to family, a heart for community, and an unwavering commitment to her faith. Her spirit was luminous, her love contagious, and her influence enduring. She leaves behind a legacy not only in her professional accomplishments but also in the values she instilled in her children, grandchildren, and countless others she touched along the way.
She is lovingly remembered by her children, Sybil R. Martin, Reginald W. Martin (Janice R Martin), and Matthew W. Martin (Erniesia B. Martin); her treasured grandchildren, ReginaldW. Martin Jr., Ryan W. Martin, Morgan P. Martin, and Matthew w. Martin Jr.; her siblings, Maudelle Alice Brown (deceased), Albertine Merriweather, Edward Harris Sr., Atlanta Jordan; and a host of nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends.
Laurette Harris Martin's story is not one that ends with her passing; it is a story that lives on-in every life she shaped, every heart she touched, and every soul she inspired. We rejoice in her remarkable life. While we mourn her absence, we celebrate a beautiful legacy of love, faith, and excellence that will endure for generations. her life was a living example of the scripture:
"Well done, good and faithful servant... enter into the joy of your Lord." - Matthew 25:23
What’s your fondest memory of Laurette?
What’s a lesson you learned from Laurette?
Share a story where Laurette's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Laurette you’ll never forget.
How did Laurette make you smile?
