Laura Katherine Wright
Laura Katherine Wright
Laura Katherine Wright, age 84, of Marianna, Florida, passed away on June 30, 2026 while surrounded by her loving family. She was born on February 13, 1942, in Marianna, Florida, and lived a life marked by devotion, hard work, faith, and a deep love for those around her.
Katherine was preceded in death by her parents, Mary Jane and Robert Lee Raines; her husband, William Edward Wright; her infant son, William Kenneth Wright; two brothers, Robert Raines and Danny Raines; and one sister, Vera Mae Rehberg.
She is survived by her two daughters, Janet Baxley and husband, Billy of Marianna, and Carol Meadows and husband, Craig of Cumming, GA; sisters, Jenell Melvin of Marianna and Christine Tice and her husband, James of Cottondale; brother-in-law, Shirley Rehberg of Cottondale; grandchildren, Emily Harris and husband, Tyler, Austin Baxley and wife, Michaela, and Keely Meadows; two great-grandchildren, Braylee Leavins and Daxlynn Harris. Katherine also leaves behind a host of extended family members and friends who will forever cherish her memory.
Katherine began working at Warners sewing factory at the age of 18, where she learned the value of dedication and perseverance at an early age. She later served the Jackson County School Board by driving the bus and working in the school cafeteria, roles she carried out with responsibility and care. She was also a business owner at Five Points Grocery, where her hard work and friendly nature were well known. Above all, she cherished her role as a homemaker, finding joy in caring for her family and making a warm and loving home.
Katherine had many gifts and talents, including teaching herself how to play the piano. Her music became another way she shared her heart with others. She was a longtime member of New Salem Baptist Church, where she worshiped faithfully for most of her life. She sang in the choir and led music for more than 30 years.
Traveling with her family was one of Katherine’s greatest joys, and she treasured the time spent making memories together. She also enjoyed playing card games with her family. Whether at home, at church, or on the road with loved ones, she brought warmth, laughter, and love wherever she went. Her life was a beautiful example of service, faith, and family devotion, and she will be remembered with deep affection by all who knew her.
Funeral services will be 11:00 A.M. Thursday, July 2, 2026 at New Salem Baptist Church with Reverends Damon Fountain and Joey Woodruff officiating. Interment will follow the service in New Salem Baptist Church Cemetery.
The family will receive friends for visitation one hour before the service at the church.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to: New Salem Baptist Church (3478 Kynesville Rd. Marianna, FL 32448).
Katherine’s family would like to extend a special thank you to Emerald Coast Hospice; her New Salem Baptist Church family; sister, Christine Tice; and sisters in law, Sue Baker and Dale Burnett for the love, support and care you have shown to her and her family the last few months.
Services are entrusted to the Lambe family at Marianna Chapel Funeral Home
Condolences may be made online at www.mariannachapelfh.com