Mrs. Laura Oldham was a beautiful soul that dedicated many years to Ripley County, she served the community happily in so many ways. You could always find her smiling face at the local ballparks, the local ballgames and at her favorite HOME away from HOME, Ripley County Transit. She was originally hired at the Ripley County Transit when it was still located at 102 Water St. They only had a small office and worked so diligently to make a service for the community that serves still to this day.
Laura began her work at the Transit under the direction of Founder and Retired Executive Director Pat Lowery, she was originally brought on to the team as the Assistant Director in 2004. She served that position with Pat until 2013, when Pat retired and Laura was promoted to Executive Director. She served as Executive Director from 2013 - 2022. She loved the Transit and the many people who have called it home over the years. She dedicated herself to making her clients and employees feel at home and like family. Everyone who knew her, knew they had met someone special. She had a way of making you feel at ease, and when she walked into a room it always brightened.
Laura lived life to the fullest she could, she loved to travel with her "Honey" Tom Oldham. She enjoyed Cruisin the Coast, taking weekend trips to Branson, fishing, going on cruises to exotic locations and experiencing all kinds of new things. She enjoyed absolutely everything that gave her quality time with Tom. She loved her family more than anything. Her kids and grandkids were her pride and joy. She always talked about everyone in her family and how much joy she had when they stopped by, which was frequent.
Laura is someon who will be remembered forever. Her smile, her laughter, her wisdom and definitely her love of life. She will live on in the hearts and soul of all who knew her. Her legacy will shine on for many years to come.
You will watch our small red maple growing in the side yard of the Ripley County Transit Office, it was planted in memory of Laura. As your watching it grow and flourish, it will watch over us at the Transit, just as she always did.
