Joe Howard Laurence

Joe Howard Laurence, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed away on November 17, 2025, at the age of 95. Born in Toro, Louisiana, on February 6, 1930, Joe spent his life dedicated to his family, his work, and his faith.

Joe was raised in Toro, until his family moved to New London, Texas when he was a teenager. Upon graduating from high school, he served in the army during the Korean Conflict from 1951 to 1953.

Joe worked overseas before returning home to marry the girl across the street, Rose. Their love story spanned 69 wonderful years filled with laughter, adventure, and support for one another. Together, they raised two children, Keith and Janae. Joe is survived by Keith and Brenda Laurence of Merryville, La., Janae and Tim Robinson of Dallas, Tx. Grandchildren, Aaron Robinson and wife, Kristy Cargile, Brandon Laurence, Alex Stone and husband, Zach, and Brittany Laurence, and a great-grandson, Ozro River "Ozzy" Stone, along with a host of nieces, nephews, family and friends.

Joe was preceded in death by his parents, James and Eula Laurence; sister, Marie Caveness, and brother, Jake Laurence.

Joe and Rose started married life in Port Neches, Tx. May 12, 1956. He became a journeyman pipefitter working in the Jefferson County area. In 1973, they moved to Merryville, while Joe continued driving to the Golden Triangle for work. In 1992, after over three decades in the industry, he retired and decided to start focusing on his Simmental cows and a few Longhorns, that he owned and still had at the date of his death. Joe and Rose shared a passion for travel, exploring far-off places across Europe, Asia, and the Middle East, always bringing back stories to share.

Deeply committed to his faith, Joe, along with Rose, was a founding member of Beth-El Church. He taught Adult Sunday School classes and took pride in keeping the church grounds well-kept, including many other things. Up until the challenges posed by COVID, Joe was an avid churchgoer, always ready to lend a hand, whether by mowing the grass or picking up litter.

Joe's warmth, kindness, and humor will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Funeral services will be held on Monday, November 24, 2025, at 11:00 AM at Myers Colonial Funeral Home in DeRidder, LA, where friends and family will gather to celebrate Joe's remarkable life. Visitation will be held at 10:00 AM prior to the service. A burial will follow the service at Cooper Cemetery in Merryville, LA. Pallbearers will be Keith Laurence, Brandon Laurence, Aaron Robinson, Marcus Robinson, Charles Laurence and Zach Stone. All are welcome to come and share memories of Joe and the impact he had on so many lives.