JACKSONVILLE  -  Laura Alice Hairston, 85, of Jacksonville, North Carolina passed away on October 14, 2024, at her home. There will be a private graveside service at the Bennett Family cemetery in Maysville, NC.

Ms. Hairston was born on November 23, 1938, in Georgia to the late William "Billy" Cornett and Dorothy Higginbotham Cornett. Laura dedicated her life to caring for her family, especially her eldest daughter, whom she lovingly supported for over twenty years as a caregiver until her own health deteriorated. Her compassion and selflessness touched everyone who knew her. In her final years, she was tenderly cared for by her son, Marc, and daughter-in-law, Kristy. Together, along with her grandchildren, Zane and Isla, they provided a home of unwavering support and comfort, reflecting the deep bond of their family. Laura's legacy of strength, selflessness, and kindness will live on in the hearts of her family and friends. She will be deeply missed and remembered for her fiery spirit, kindness, quiet faith, and loyalty to her family.

In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her loving husband of 67 years, Jerry Hairston; daughter, Sheila Hairston and siblings, Shelby Hawkins and Billy Cornett.

She is survived by her children, Marc Hairston (Kristy) of Jacksonville, NC and Regina Gratzinger of Texarkana, AR; grandchildren, Jaime Maddox, Hillary Bowden, Dianna Kavanaugh, Morgan Hairston, Zane Hairston and Isla Hairston and many great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.