HUBERT  -  MSgt John Stanley Laursen, USMC Ret., 78, of Hubert, passed away Friday, January 10,2025 at his home.  Funeral services will be held at 11:00 AM on Monday, January 20, 2025 at St. Mildred Catholic Church with Rev. Deacon Jerry Fatica officiating. Burial will follow at Seaside Memorial Park.

Mr. Laursen was born November 16,1946 in Alliance, NE.  He faithfully served his country in the United States Marine Corps and retired at the rank of Master Sergeant. He later served as a civil servant at the Marine Corps base for several years.

He was one of the kindest souls you'd ever meet. He loved all his animals which included dogs, cats and horses. He enjoyed listening to music, working around their property and spending quality time with Marion, family and friends. He was an active member of his church and served for 25 years with the Knights of Columbus, the last 8 years as their Treasurer. He always had a smile for everyone, gave the best hugs and loved anything chocolate.

"Papa John" will be dearly missed by all that knew him.

He was preceded in death by his wife of 41 years, Marion Catherine Laursen.

Survivors include his son, Greg Graham (Kathy) of New Bern; his daughter, Debra Doughty (Life-Partner Brian Hilliard) of Fayetteville; grandchildren, Jennifer, Kristen, Steven, Ashlee and Vanessa; great-grandchild, Lila; sister, Lynesa Ayers of New Bern; niece, Karen Lancaster; and great-nieces, Laursen and Anna Page.

The family will receive friends Sunday afternoon, January 19,2025 from 4:00 until 6:00 PM at Jones Funeral Home, Swansboro Chapel.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. Mildred Catholic Church, Building Fund, 653 Old Hammock Road, Swansboro, NC 28584.