Laura May Smallwood

Laura May Smallwood, born on April 8, 1950, in Cincinnati, Ohio, peacefully departed this life on November 6, 2024, in Florence, Kentucky, surrounded by her beloved family. Laura lived her life as a loving and kind soul, who welcomed everyone into her heart as if they were family. Known for her fighting spirit, she inspired those around her with her unwavering strength and kindness.

As a devoted mother, Laura leaves behind her cherished son, Brian Claypool, her beloved daughters, Melissa Stratton and Lori (Nick) Carpenter. Her legacy continues through her grandchildren, who were her pride and joy: Ricky, Brian Jr., Logan, Hannah, Hayden, Precious, Patience, Brittany, Alex, Joshua, Sean, Isabella, Chloe, Kaytlyn, Matt and Zach, along with numerous great-grandchildren. Additionally, she is survived by her sisters: Blanche Lee, Lenora Clark, Janet Rogers, and Mary Carlotta, as well as her brother, Robert Johns, and a host of other family members and friends who will deeply miss her presence.

Laura’s life was enriched by her love for the beach and her enjoyment of watching Bengals games. She especially loved her dogs, Bella, who preceded her in death and Lily, who will miss her deeply. She created beautiful memories camping with loved ones and found peace in sitting on her back deck, observing the birds flock to her feeders. She was truly a fighter and courageously beat lung cancer.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Ethel Johns (nee Halsey) and William C. Johns, her son, Larry Claypool Jr., and her former spouse and father of her children, Larry Claypool Sr.

The family will honor Laura's memory with a visitation on November 14, 2024, from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM at Newcomer Funeral Home, Northern Kentucky, located at 4350 Dixie Hwy, Erlanger, KY 41018, followed by a funeral service.

Laura May Smallwood’s life was a testament to the beauty of love, family, and resilience. Her spirit will continue to shine bright in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.