Donald Lee Joseph Laurent

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Donald Lee Joseph Laurent, a beloved father, grandfather, and friend, who left us on May 7, 2025, at the age of 88. Born on November 7, 1936, in Gramercy, Louisiana, Donald made his home in DeRidder, Louisiana, where he created lasting memories with his family and friends.

Donald was a dedicated electrical engineer who spent his career in civil service, always striving to better his community. He proudly served in the Navy until his discharge on November 21, 1957, a commitment that reflected his strong sense of duty and honor. After the Navy, he attended LSU to get his bachelors degree. A true sports fan, Donald was an avid supporter of LSU and the New Orleans Saints, always ready to cheer them on with unwavering enthusiasm.

He was not just a proud dad but also a devoted grandfather who cherished his family, leaving behind those to cherish his memory are his son, Brett Lane Laurent and wife, Joy Hunt Laurent; his daughters, Donna Lee Laurent Marino and husband, Tony, Ronna Lynne Laurent Harper and husband, Mike, Traci Bumgardner and husband, Dan; ten grandchildren; five great grandchildren and two more on the way, along with a host of nieces, nephews, family and friends who will forever hold him in their hearts. Donald was also a 4th Degree Knight of Columbus and a member of St. Joseph Catholic Church, a testament to his deep faith and commitment to service.

Donald was preceded in death by his loving wife, Janet Laurent; parents, Raoul and Beunice Laurent; brother and sister-in-law, Raoul and Caroline Laurent; grandson, Devyn Lane Harper.

Friends and family will have the opportunity to pay their respects during the public viewing at Myers Colonial Funeral Home on Monday, May 12, 2025, from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM, the Rosary will be recited at 6:00 PM. Donald will be laid to rest at Southwest Louisiana Veterans Cemetery in Jennings, LA, at a later date honoring a life full of love, service, and joy. Honorary pallbearers will be Mike Harper, Brett Laurent, Tony Marino, Dan Bumgardner, Andrew Harper, Anthony Marino, Chase Bumgardner, Justin Laurent.

He will be missed dearly by all who knew him, but his spirit will live on in the many lives he touched. Rest easy, Donald. You've earned it.