Jean Mayes Laird passed away peacefully on July 11, 2026, at her home in Kilgore, at the age of 98, surrounded by her family. Born on November 11, 1927, in Stamford, Texas, Jean’s rich and dynamic life left an enduring mark on all who were fortunate enough to know her.

She pursued nursing studies at Kilgore College. It was here that one of her proudest moments unfolded: Jean became Miss East Texas, a Kilgore College Rangerette, and a member of the first jazz line in the Rangerettes program (The Swingsters). These early achievements foreshadowed a lifetime of dedication, talent, and commitment to her community.

Jean embraced her role as a homemaker with grace and devotion, nurturing her family with love and steadfast support. Her devotion extended beyond her immediate family into her community and church, always eager to lend a helping hand or an encouraging word. Jean was renowned for her warmth and welcoming spirit, characteristics that truly defined her life.

A woman of diverse interests and impeccable talents, Jean found joy in gardening, cooking, hand beading, sewing, and her involvement in sign language. She delighted in participating in her Good New Club Bible Study for children in her home. As a lifelong member of the First Baptist Church of Kilgore, she was an active participant in the church's Ministry for the Deaf, reflecting her loving heart and commitment to service.

Jean was a passionate gardener and shared her love for plants not only as a dedicated Garden Club member but also as a Master Gardener through Texas A&M. Her expertise and enthusiasm blossomed in the pages of the Kilgore News Herald, where she served as a gardening columnist, The Happy Gardner, sharing knowledge and inspiration with countless readers.

At the heart of Jean’s life was her boundless love for her family and friends. She is survived by her beloved children: sons Ronee Mack Laird (Margaret) and Brant Ben Laird; daughters Terri Laird Young and Robin Laird Brown; ten grandchildren; Jessa Denham (Fred), Judson Laird (Lauren), Mackenzie Vickery (Justin), Tess Young, Lauren Brown, Hayley Phillips (Tanner), Emily Brown, Ben Laird (Lucy), Madison Wood (Robert), and Jordan Laird; twelve great-grandchildren. Each held a special place in her heart, and her legacy lives on in them.

She was preceded in death by her loving husband, Mack O. Laird, her parents Floyd and Gertrude Mayes, her brother Floyd Mayes, Jr, and her son-in-law Robert Young. Their memory, alongside Jean's, will continue to be cherished by those who knew and loved them.

Jean’s passing leaves a void for many, but her spirit remains present in every garden she tended, every family gathering she enriched, and every life she touched with her kindness and dedication.

Family and friends are invited to pay their respects during the visitation at Rader Funeral Home, 401 N Martin St, Kilgore, TX, on Thursday, July 16, 2026, from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. A funeral service will be held on Friday, July 17, 2026, at 11:00 a.m., at First Baptist Church, 501 East North Street, Kilgore, TX.

Jean's family asks that memorials be made to Kilgore Improvement and Beautification Association, P.O. Box 1524, Kilgore, Texas 75662 or a charity of your choice.