Colonial Chapel Funeral Home of Laurel

Colonial Chapel Funeral Home of Laurel Trusted Funeral and Cremation service provider for Jones and surrounding counties located in Laurel, MS. "We are a Family Serving Families."

Here at Colonial Chapel Funeral Home we know what it means to be a part of a family....people bound by all kinds of ties in all kinds of situations. At Colonial Chapel Funeral Home we quietly provide support, guidance, compassion and total commitment at a time when inner strength and peace are challenged. Michael Walker
Manager

Velton “Buddy” Stringer Jr. 79, of Stringer, Mississippi, passed away Friday May 22, 2026, at his residence in Stringer,...
05/24/2026

Velton “Buddy” Stringer Jr. 79, of Stringer, Mississippi, passed away Friday May 22, 2026, at his residence in Stringer, Mississippi. Buddy was born January 19, 1947, in Stringer, MS.

Buddy retired from Masonite after 35 years. He enjoyed watching his grandchildren play sports for the Stringer Red Devils. Also enjoyed spending time outdoors.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday May 26, 2026 from 11:00AM to 1:00PM at the Colonial Chapel Funeral Home in Laurel, Mississippi. Graveside Services will be at 1:30PM, on Tuesday May 26, 2026, at Providence Cemetery in Stringer, MS with burial to follow. Bro. Tony Johnson will officiate. Colonial Chapel Funeral Home of Laurel is in charge of arrangements. (601) 649-3342.

Buddy was preceded in death by his parents, Velton Stringer Sr. and Trudie Mae Stringer; great-grandson, Cohen Sage Stringer; first wife, Janis Bryant Stringer; second wife, Carolyn Stringer; baby brother and baby sister.

Survivors include his daughters, Angela Wood (Leonard); Michelle Stewart (Irvin); son, Jamie Stringer (Christi); 6 grandchildren, Nikki Welborn (Joseph), Laken Park (Seung), Tayler Bradberry (Corey), Jordan Stewart, Parker Bradshaw (Chase), Cole Stringer (Makenzie); great-grandchildren, Emma Joe Welborn, Hazel Mae Welborn, Hadley Bradberry, Asher Bradberry, Breckyn Bradshaw, Natelee Prunera, Lynnlee Bradshaw, Stevee Bradshaw, Jamesly Stringer, Maely Stringer, Taika Park; brothers, Ben Stringer (Lynda), Wendell Stringer (Kathy), sister, Terry Stringer Bassett.

Pallbearers will be Chase Bradshaw, Cole Stringer, Joseph Welborn, Seung Park, Todd Stringer and Allen Bassett.

Online guestbook may be signed at www.colonialchapelfuneralhomelaurel.com

Luther E. ScottIf there ever was someone who would like to see a man that would classify as one “pulled up by his bootst...
05/21/2026

Luther E. Scott

If there ever was someone who would like to see a man that would classify as one “pulled up by his bootstraps”, Luther Scott would definitely qualify. He was born in Kemper County, Mississippi, on October 14, 1929, to Rev. Ellis W. Scott and Loleta Maye Scott. He was the third of four boys and most definitely a country boy. He lived in this area for a few years prior to moving to Tehuacana, Texas, during the time his dad went to ministerial school.

Prior to Texas, he spent his time helping his mom, doing what a young boy would do, especially planting a garden. He had his little spot and took great pride in it. This pride from childhood continued on through 2025. Years ago, his two youngest grandchildren found a picture of eggplants in a seed catalog. He had never grown it, we had never cooked it, but he got the plants and has planted them every year since. He always gave them away, but he grew them with great pride.

After his dad completed his degree, the family moved to Saucier, MS, where he became pastor of the Methodist Church. The move was a somber one with his mother very ill and passed away shortly thereafter. He, being the only son at home, not only took care of his mother until her death, but he was also “chief cook and bottle washer”. All at the age of eleven. Living in Saucier was his best life. He cherished those three years where he met the best group of friends anyone could ask for. They occupied his time in wonderful ways. When his dad was called to another church, it meant leaving his BEST friends behind. It got to the point, where going to school was not what he wanted it to be. At the age of 17 he persuaded His dad to sign for him to join the army.

The army was the beginning of a whole new life. Prior to this he had taken it upon himself to go to the Delta, find a crane-operating acquaintance, and learn this trade. That he did!! This intervention was a God-send to prepare him for the military. After his basic training, he was sent to Hawaii, where using his skill as a crane operator, he had “the life of Riley” building a golf course for the General. His term in the military ended at the beginning of the Korean War. He was willing to go; however, it was too late.

After his military service he became a crane operator at various pulp and paper mills in Mississippi, Alabama, and Louisiana. He also worked in construction building some of these mills before working there. His final job was at a Mississippi mill where he gave high praise to his crew.

He was previously married and was the father of two girls. While working in Louisiana, he met his wife, Roberta Luttrell Scott, the mother of one son, and they had a daughter. After all of his adventures, he and his wife settled in Soso, Mississippi, to enjoy the rest of their lives where he lived his life as a man with great faith.

Deaths were his parents Rev. Ellis W. Scott and Loleta Maye Strange Scott, his step-mother Mable Ford Scott, his brothers Winston E. Scott, A. Francis Scott, and John Wesley Scott, a step-son Bill Blansett, and grandsons Erik Spittler and Andrew Brandon. Survived by his wife of 54 years, Roberta Luttrell Scott, daughters Teresa Roberts (Rod), Regina Wrigley, and Allyson Knotts (Chris). Grandchildren Kelly Brandon, Jaklyn Wrigley (Erich), Nikki Wrigley, Callee Knotts, John Wesley Knotts, Jamie Leubbert (Jared) Will Knotts, Cameron Knotts (Makaylin), many great-grandchildren and a host of nieces and nephews.

The family will receive friends on Saturday, May 23, 2026, from 11:00AM till 12:30PM at Faith Community Church in Soso, MS. Funeral services will follow at 12:30PM at the same location. Burial will take place at Union Line Cemetery in Soso; MS.

Pallbearers will be Randy Johnson, Chris Knotts, John Wesley Knotts, Will Knotts, Chris Lindsey and Patrick Wertz.

Honorary Pallbearers will be Lonnie Bounds, Gary Crocker, Jason Mooney and Terry Don Valentine.

Michael Todd “Trip” Johnson, 55, of Bassfield, Mississippi, passed away peacefully on May 18, 2026.Michael was preceded ...
05/19/2026

Michael Todd “Trip” Johnson, 55, of Bassfield, Mississippi, passed away peacefully on May 18, 2026.

Michael was preceded in death by his grandparents, Percy Dale Sr. and Madron Bullock of Bassfield, and William and Hattie Johnson of Ovett.

He is survived by his loving parents, Don and Rheba Johnson of Laurel, his fiancée, Angie Vice of Bassfield, his stepson Nate Vice of Barton, his stepdaughters Ashlynn Vice of Mobile, and Lori Vice Brooks of Barton and husband Jay, his brother, Joey Johnson and wife Mandy of Laurel, and his beloved nieces and nephews, Kendall Griffith and husband Walker of Seminary, Brittany Burnham of Laurel, Logan Clinton of D’iberville and Christian Johnson and wife Haley of Vancleave.

Michael was well known by friends as “Trip” Johnson. He had a deep love for bulldogs, the outdoors, and spending time with his friends and family. He will be remembered for his kind heart, his love of life, and the many memories he shared with those who knew and loved him.

At Michael’s request, no formal service will be held. Family and friends will gather at a later date for a memorial celebration of his life.

He will be deeply missed by all who loved him.

To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Michael Todd "Tip" Johnson, please visit our flower store.

Judy Faye Poore Laird., 78, of Laurel, Mississippi, gained her wings and went to be with our Heavenly father Sunday, May...
05/11/2026

Judy Faye Poore Laird., 78, of Laurel, Mississippi, gained her wings and went to be with our Heavenly father Sunday, May 10, 2026, at her residence surrounded by her loved ones in Laurel, Mississippi. She was born, September 29, 1947, to William and Ella Poore in Jasper County,
Mississippi.

Judy was known for her extravagant cooking skills and was a God fearing woman.

Anyone that ever come in contact with her that was going through a hard time was guaranteed to be given a hug and a hand in prayer. She attended Life Church for many years until her health declined and she was unable to attend services in person. But, she still stayed plugged into her church family by viewing on the television. She is no longer suffering and is rejoicing with her
loved ones lost on Earth. We live on knowing that we all will see Judy again in heaven one day and family appreciates all prayers and condolences during this hard time.

Phillipians 4:4
“Rejoice in the Lord, always. I will say it again. Rejoice!”

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, May 13, 2026, from 12:00 PM until 2:00 PM at Colonial Chapel Funeral Home in Laurel, Mississippi.
Funeral Services will be held on Wednesday, May 13, 2026, at 2:00 PM at Colonial Chapel Funeral Home of Laurel and the Burial will follow in Moss Memory Gardens.

Bro. Jacob McKenzie will officiate. Colonial Chapel Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. 601) 649-3342.
She was preceded in death by her loving husband of 55 years, James Owen Laird Jr., daughter, Melissa Karen Laird; parents, William “Billy” and Ella Fair Boone Poore, great-granddaughter, Emerlynn Renae Welch, brother, John Stanley Poore, sister in-law, Gladys Nell Poore, brother
in-laws, Joe Larry Shelby and Buddy Flowers.

Survivors include her; son, William “ Kevin”Laird (Shawn Creel); grandson, Miles Merrell; granddaughters, Megan Yarbrough and Autumn Laird; great granddaughters, Raeanna Merrell and Oaklynn Yarbrough; great grandson, River James Yarbrough, sister, Betty Ann Shelby, sister in-law, Betty Flowers and a host of nieces and nephews.

Pallbearers will be her Family and Friends.
Online guestbook may be signed at www.colonialchapellaurel.co

Betty Jo Sharp, 78 of Laurel, MS passed away Wednesday, May 6, 2026, in Laurel, MS. She was born June 14, 1947, in Covin...
05/07/2026

Betty Jo Sharp, 78 of Laurel, MS passed away Wednesday, May 6, 2026, in Laurel, MS. She was born June 14, 1947, in Covington County, Mississippi.

Visitation will be held on Monday, May 11, 2026, from 10:00AM until 11:00AM at Old Antioch Baptist Church in 1805 MS-28, Soso, MS. Funeral services will be held on Monday, May 11, 2026 at 11:00AM at Old Antioch Baptist Church in Soso, MS. Burial will follow in Old Antioch Baptist Church Cemetery in Soso, MS. Bro. Robbie White and Bro. Donald Moore will officiate. Colonial Chapel Funeral Home of Laurel is in charge of arrangements. 601-649-3342

She was deeply loved and cherished by friends and family, and her absence will forever be felt. She will be sadly missed and will always hold a place in our hearts.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Andrew Lovannie Sharp; parents, Ellis and Vada Johnston; siblings, Ellis Johnston Jr., Buddy Johnston, Tommy Johnston, Howard Johnson and Mary Joyce Clark.

Survivors include her sons, Andrew K. Sharp (Cindy) and Wayne Sharp; sister, Ada Faye Westbrook; lots of nieces and nephews, who were always like my children; special friends, Elizabeth Dees Creekmore, Allyson Dees White, Carrye Dees Ishee, Cristy Corona, Jean Pilgrim and Kay Lynn Moore.

Special thanks to Kaylynn Buckley and Camia Smith of Deaconess Hospice.

Pallbearers will be Ricky Sharp, Anthony Johnston, and John Clark.

An online guestbook may be signed at www.colonialchapellaurel.com

Deborah Lynn Maddox, 63, of Spring, Texas, passed away unexpectedly on April 18, 2026. Known by those who love her as “D...
04/24/2026

Deborah Lynn Maddox, 63, of Spring, Texas, passed away unexpectedly on April 18, 2026. Known by those who love her as “Debbie,” “Deb,” “Mom” and “Sister,” she will be greatly and dearly missed.

Born on Aug. 10, 1962, in Laurel to William “BillyMac” and Linda Carmichael, Debbie was known for her love of music, the performing arts, and lots and lots of spreadsheets. She grew up working for her parents’ convenience store chain, Mac’s Mini Mart. There she learned the value of hard work and dedication to serving others. She moved to the greater Houston area in 1984 to pursue a career in the bustling insurance industry where she built a life rooted in service, faith and love for others. There she met and wed the love of her life Donald Lee Maddox.

Her greatest love was her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, and that love radiated through every part of her life. Debbie had a gift for making people feel seen and valued — she truly never met a stranger. Her faith was evident in her servant heart, as she faithfully served as co-leader of the Tech Team at Local Church, Tomball, Texas.

Debbie had a deep passion for music and the arts. She taught voice and piano lessons, worked behind the scenes in countless productions, and lovingly designed, sewed, and tailored thousands of costumes for local ballet, theatre, and church performances spanning more than 30 years. Her creativity and dedication touched many lives as is evident by the multitude of current and former students who lovingly referred to her as “Momma Maddox.”
As an empty-nester, one of her most cherished callings was working with children. She poured her heart into teaching and nurturing toddlers and preschoolers through Spring First Church’s “Mother’s Day Out” program. This dedication to her classroom has made a lasting impression on the children whom she taught and prayed for every Tuesday and Thursday morning. During this time, she continued to work in the administration of KenKenz Inc (Mac’s Mini Mart), alongside her sister under the leadership of their brother, continuing the legacy of the family’s business.

She is survived by her loving and devoted husband Donald Maddox; her daughter Courtney Maddox; her son and his wife Michael and Rebecca Maddox; her father William Malcom Carmichael Sr.; her brothers Malcolm and wife Mari Carmichael and Scott Carmichael; and her sister Pam and husband Frankie McBride. She also shared love and adoration with her many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, uncles, aunts and cousins.

She was preceded in death by her mother Linda Sue “Mamma C” Carmichael; and stepson Cody Jon Maddox.

A graveside service will be Saturday, April 25, at 4 p.m. at Christway Baptist Church, located on Highway 84 West in Laurel, where she will be laid to rest beside her mother in Logan Cole Hill Memorial Cemetery. Afterward, a time of fellowship and reflection will be hosted inside the church.

A celebration of life will take place in the Northwest Houston, Texas, area at a later date.

Debbie’s life was a reflection of faith, love and service. The light of Christ shone brightly through her, and her legacy will live on in all who were blessed to know her.

Kenneth “Tate” Wayne Walker, of Big Creek, Mississippi, passed away Thursday April 23, 2026, at his home, in Soso, Missi...
04/24/2026

Kenneth “Tate” Wayne Walker, of Big Creek, Mississippi, passed away Thursday April 23, 2026, at his home, in Soso, Mississippi. He was born July, 16 1957, in Jones County, MS.

Visitation will be held on Monday April 27, 2026 from 10:00AM to 11:00AM at Centerville Baptist Church in Soso, Mississippi. Funeral Services will be at same location at 11:00AM with burial to follow in Centerville Baptist Church Cemetery in Soso, MS. Bro. Jimmy Hood and Bro. Jim Woodyear will officiate. Colonial Chapel Funeral Home of Laurel is in charge of arrangements. (601) 649-3342.

Tate was a member of Centerville Baptist Church and a man of God, loved the Lord with all his heart and soul. He was a witness for Jesus all the way till the very end.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Jean Taylor Taie; sister, Debra Jefcoat, through donating her kidney kept him alive for another 29 years; aunts and uncles, Beatrice Taylor, Charles Taylor (Christa), Leo Taylor (Janice), Joseph Taylor, (Barbara), Billy Ray Taylor, Robert Taylor, Ellis Taylor; grandmother, Dicie Taylor.

Survivors include his wife of 39 years, Lisa Walker; daughter, Kendall Parker (Rodney), grand-daughter, Ella Parker (August), wonderful niece, Jennifer Stephenson, (Greg), great-nephew, Haden Stephenson, great-niece, Haley Stephenson; aunts, Katherine Roney, Su Yean Taylor and Sharon Taylor and a host of cousins.

Pallbearers will be Greg Jones, Nelson Hill, Rayford Jefcoat, Josh Holifield, Bobby Hilbun, Jess Holifield, and Brody Holifield.

Honorary pallbearers will be Rodney Parker and August LeBourgeois.
Special thanks to his loyal friends, Rayford Jefcoat, Nelson Hill, Randy Jefcoat and Dusty Todd.

Online guestbook may be signed at www.colonialchapelfuneralhomelaurel.com

Margaret D. Rogers, 84, passed from this life on Friday, April 17, 2026. She was born Thursday, April 24, 1941, at home ...
04/18/2026

Margaret D. Rogers, 84, passed from this life on Friday, April 17, 2026. She was born Thursday, April 24, 1941, at home in Laurel, Mississippi.

A simple life Gardener, a selfless Christian Lady who gave her whole life to God, husband and her children. Margaret was a faithful member of Laurel Church of Christ.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, April 22, 2026, from 9:30A.M. until 11:00 A.M. at Colonial Chapel Funeral Home in Laurel. Funeral Services for Margaret Rogers will be held Wednesday, April 22, 2026, at 11:00 A.M. at Colonial Chapel Funeral Home in Laurel, MS. Burial will follow at Barnes Cemetery in the Hot Coffee Community. Bro Steve Harris will officiate the service, with Colonial Chapel Funeral Home of Laurel will be in Charge of arrangements 601-649-3342.

She is survived by her daughters Debbie Miller (Jerry) of Madison, MS, Jo Donna Parker (Bruce) of Stringer, MS, grandchildren Anna Jordan (Kameron) of Madison, MS, Heather Gatlin (Eric) of SoSo, MS, Tiffany Edmondson (Brad) of Madison, MS, Mason Parker (Katie) of Stringer, MS, Christine Young (Christian) of Madison, MS., great grandchildren Pearson, Josie and Brooks Jordan, Rylee and Emma Gatlin, Lynlee, Miller and Elliot Edmondson, Hanna and Asher Parker, Joseph and Micah Young.

She is preceded in death by her husband Joseph Burlon Rogers, father Sherod Lee Measells Sr., mother Myrtis Measells Hill, step-father Charlie B. Hill, brother Sherod Lee “Butch” Measells Jr.

Pallbearers will be Mason Parker, Eric Gatlin, Kameron Jordan, Brad Edmondson, Christian Young, Al Rogers, Brad Measells and Ken May.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association 196 Charmant Drive Suite 4 Ridgeland, MS 39157, the American Cancer Society P.O. Box 6704, Hagerstown, MD, 21741, the Berean Children’s Home: 1180 Berea Trail SE, Bogue Chitto, MS 39629.

Obituary for J. Benson HillApril 13, 1936 – April 7, 2026J. Benson Hill, 89, of Laurel, Mississippi passed away peaceful...
04/08/2026

Obituary for J. Benson Hill

April 13, 1936 – April 7, 2026

J. Benson Hill, 89, of Laurel, Mississippi passed away peacefully at his home on Tuesday, April 7, 2026. Born on April 13,1936 in Laurel, MS, he lived a full and active life surrounded by loved ones and friends and will be deeply missed.

J. Benson was easily recognized by his handlebar mustache, signature flat cap and all black vehicles. He had a huge circle of friends to whom he was very loyal. He was a welder/pipe fitter adept at any mechanical task. His hobbies included racecars and horses. He was an avid racecar enthusiast who built and raced his own cars. A lifelong lover of horses, he was known for his skill in training and riding gaited horses. He and his friends made special memories while riding trails. He loved watching his grandson and great grandsons play baseball and enjoyed visits from his grandchildren and great grandchildren. He was a member of Crossgate Bible Church where he was baptized at the age of 89.

J. Benson was preceded in death by his wife, Etoile Jernigan Hill; his father, Everett Hill; his mother, Vallie Pitts Hill; his sister, Emma Joy Smith Powell; and his brother, Carlson Hill. He is survived by his children: Ann Turner (Mike), Becky Tew (Vern), Nelson Hill (Rosemary) and Jan Collins (Kerry). He is also survived by a sister, Gloria Ellzey, a sister-in-law, Patsy Hill and his much loved grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

A graveside service officiated by Pastor Kevin Williamson will be held Friday, April 10 with graveside visitation at 10 am. and service at 10:30 a.m. at Big Creek Cemetery, Soso, MS. Colonial Chapel Funeral Home of Laurel, MS is in charge of arrangements.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Crossgate Bible Church, P.O. Box 71, Soso, MS 39480.

Pallbearers include Rahn Tew, Daniel Winfield, Stogey D***s, Randy Gray, Rich Gray and Jonathon Turner.

Harry Donald Gatlin, 83, of Heidelberg, Mississippi, passed away peacefully from Stage 5 kidney failure on Tuesday, Apri...
04/07/2026

Harry Donald Gatlin, 83, of Heidelberg, Mississippi, passed away peacefully from Stage 5 kidney failure on Tuesday, April 7, 2026, at his home. Born on April 19, 1942, in Laurel, Mississippi, Donald lived a full life surrounded by family and friends.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Shirley Satcher Gatlin; his parents, Eddie Lee Gatlin Sr. and Claudia Flowers Gatlin; his brother, Clayton Gatlin; his sister, Angie Byrd; his twin brother, Doug Gatlin; and his brothers-in-law, James Smith and Wayne Byrd.

Donald is survived by his son, Timothy Donald Gatlin and his wife Tonya; his daughter, Sonya Gatlin Welch and her husband Kerry; his cherished grandchildren, Kerry Dell Welch Jr. and his wife Sheridan, Savannah Rose Gatlin, and Kai Gatlin Welch and his wife Maci. He also leaves behind his siblings, Eddie Lee “Dick” Gatlin Jr., Janet Smith, Keith Gatlin and his wife Jeanette, and Ricky Gatlin, along with numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Graveside services will be held on Sunday, April 12, 2026, at 2:00PM at Bethel Baptist Church Cemetery in Sandersville, Mississippi, with burial to follow. The services will be officiated by Bro. Brent Benson, Bro. Troy Hobson, and Bro. Eric Benson. Arrangements are being handled by Colonial Chapel Funeral Home of Laurel, and condolences may be shared online at their website.

Pallbearers will include Kerry Dell Welch Jr., Kai Gatlin Welch, David Stroud, Brent Ball, Eddie Windham, Todd Smith, Tony Satcher, and Craig Satcher, with Austin Carter serving as an honorary pallbearer.

Nellie Trest Jones, 76, of Laurel, Mississippi, passed away on Thursday, April 2, 2026. Born on August 18, 1949, in Laur...
04/06/2026

Nellie Trest Jones, 76, of Laurel, Mississippi, passed away on Thursday, April 2, 2026. Born on August 18, 1949, in Laurel, MS, Nellie spent her life in the community she loved. She was a dedicated employee at Rapad oil for over 20 years.

Nellie was preceded in death by her beloved husband, James “Puddin” Jones, her son Michael Doggett, her father Norman M. Trest, Sr., her mother Cora Mitchell Trest, and her brother Norman M. Trest, Jr.

She is survived by her daughter Debbie Ruffin and her husband Tom, her son Shelton Doggett and his wife Mimi, her grandchildren Kayla Stephens and her husband Judd, Katie Quinnelly, and Harper Doggett, as well as her great-grandchildren Jackson Welborn, Paisley Welborn, and Grayson Stephens. She also leaves behind her sister Norma Gail Baker.

Graveside services will be held at 10:00 AM on Tuesday, April 7, 2026, at Hopewell Baptist Church Cemetery in Jasper County, MS with burial to follow. Arrangements are being handled by Colonial Chapel Funeral Home of Laurel.

Pallbearers will include Shelton Doggett, Judd Stephens, Lou Thomas, Jackson Welborn, Bob Baker, and Shelby Baker, with Grayson Stephens serving as an honorary pallbearer.

Address

4593 Indian Springs Road
Laurel, MS
39443

Alerts

Be the first to know and let us send you an email when Colonial Chapel Funeral Home of Laurel posts news and promotions. Your email address will not be used for any other purpose, and you can unsubscribe at any time.

Contact The Practice

Send a message to Colonial Chapel Funeral Home of Laurel:

Share