of West Memphis, AR
November 9, 1921 - March 20, 2015
Laura died peacefully on March 20, 2015, in Jacksonville, Florida. She was born November 9, 1921, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, to Levina and Charles Brendlinger, the eighth of nine children. In 1941, she joined the Army as a member of the Women's Auxiliary Corp and was stationed at Majors Air Force Base in Greeneville, Texas, where she met and married P. G. Para on September 1, 1944.
After the war, the Paras made West Memphis their home. In addition to managing a home and raising four children, Laura was involved for many years in numerous community organizations, including PTA, Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts. She was a member and active participant in the congregation of First United Methodist Church of West Memphis and a Life member of the Junior Auxiliary.
Laura worked for the West Memphis School District for 27 years, mainly as secretary at East Junior High School. After her retirement she was active in many social and volunteer activities. She particularly enjoyed working in the gift shop at the Crittenden Memorial Hospital as a Pink Lady, ushering at the Orpheum Theater, and delivering meals on wheels.
In 2008, Laura moved to Jacksonville, Florida, where she enjoyed several years of family gatherings, and new friends and experiences at Riverside Presbyterian House. In October 2011, she moved to the Compassionate Caregivers home for her final years.
Laura is survived by her daughter, Livy; her son, Bud, and his wife, Kathy; her son, Charlie; and her son, Phillip and his wife, Sabrina. She is also survived by her adored grandchildren Jake, Jared, Kimberly and Miles.
The family thanks Geemu Dolsenhe and Gloria Miller and her staff for the comfort and care provided to Laura. Memorial donations may be made to First United Methodist Church of West Memphis Praise Band.
Visitation will be held on Wednesday, March 25, 2015 from 5:00-7:00pm at Roller-Citizens Funeral Home in West Memphis. A graveside service will be held on Thursday, March 26, 2015 beginning at 10:00am at Crittenden Memorial Park in Marion, AR.
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14 Condolence(s)
Jeff Cowgill
Monday, April 20, 2015
Blessings, wanted to extend our prayers and well wishes. Mrs Para worked at East Jr. High during my freshmen year and I worked in the office with her and Mrs Stoval. She was such a very nice person to work with, always kind to me.
Mark & Alisa Criner
Thursday, March 26, 2015
Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Sorry we were not able to make it to the service. Love you.
Karen Moise
Thursday, March 26, 2015
I remember Mrs. Para from the office at East Jr. High School. I "worked" in the office during one period each day, when I was in school. I've thought about her many times throughout the years. She was always so kind to me as a young person. My heart goes out her family and friends at this time. Thank you Mrs. Para for the positive impact you made on young people...You will never be forgotten. God Bless...
Beverly McGary
Wednesday, March 25, 2015
Phillip, was so sorry to hear about your Mother. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Debbie Butler
Wednesday, March 25, 2015
I am so sorry about the passing of Mrs. Para. I have many fond memories of growing up on South Roselawn, where I still live today, with the Para family. May God bless and keep you all.
Gloria miller
Tuesday, March 24, 2015
My deepest sympathy to the family of Laura Para a woman who brought so much
Your to our facility with her pleasant smile love all that she met especially the children that ,The Staff and Families will Truly Miss her.
God bless this family
Compassionate Caregivers
Cheryl House
Tuesday, March 24, 2015
I am so sorry for your loss. I worked with Mrs. Para at West Memphis High School. She was absolutely the sweetest lady ever!
Rick Houser
Tuesday, March 24, 2015
Such a sweet, sweet woman. My heart goes out to the Paras.
Eva
Tuesday, March 24, 2015
We surely love all the Para's and have so enjoyed being close to Laura over the years. She had the sweetest spirit and was fun to talk with. Our hearts go out to you all. Wish we could be there with you.
Love, Eva, Rick and Sara
Mike Reneau
Tuesday, March 24, 2015
Phillip,
My thoughts are with you and your family.
Everett Adamson
Monday, March 23, 2015
So sorry to hear this. Sue and I are praying for the family. If we can do anything let us know.
Linda G. Williams
Sunday, March 22, 2015
Phillip my heart goes out to you at this time of loosing your mom. It sounds like she lived a full and wonderful life. One I know you are proud of. I did not know her but I do know she put her whole heart into raising you all and loved you very much. Her mannerism showed in you. Look to The Lord for He is your comforter! My prayers are with you.
Love In Christ,
Linda Williams
Barbara Coleman
Sunday, March 22, 2015
My sympathy to the Para Family. I am so sorry for your loss.
Roger Atkins
Sunday, March 22, 2015
Phillip, I am so sorry for your loss. Your mother was a wonderful lady. Roger