Laura Highsmith McKinnon

Mrs. Laura Highsmith McKinnon, age 94, of Willacoochee, Ga. passed away Tuesday, October 17, 2017, at Irwin County Medical Center in Ocilla, GA following a brief illness. A native of Atkinson County, Mrs. McKinnon was born November 1, 1922, the daughter of Ira Angus and Mamie McPhatter Corbitt. She was the 5th of 10 children.  She graduated from high school in Willacoochee, GA. A consummate mother and homemaker, Mrs. McKinnon was an excellent cook and enjoyed preparing meals for her family and friends. Some of her many hobbies included travelling, spending time with family and friends, and participating in all activities involving her church family. Mrs. McKinnon had an unwavering faith in God. She had been a member of the Willacoochee United Methodist Church for over 60 years and remained an active member until her recent health demise.  She was a past president of her local UMW Women’s group. Survivors include: three sons Bobby (Becky) McKinnon of Yulee, FL, Jerry (Lynn) McKinnon of Cordele, GA and Craig (Denise) McKinnon of Willacoochee, GA; one daughter, Janice Tillman of Willacoochee, Ga.; one sister, Irene Nolan of Willacoochee, one brother-in-law, Woodrow (Derienne) McKinnon of Douglas; nine grandchildren: Tony (Kim) McKinnon, Jason McKinnon, Edy (Britt) Leverette, Selena McKinnon Youmans, Britt (Jennifer) Tillman, Matthew (Jennifer) McKinnon, Phaedra McKinnon, Kyle McKinnon, and Alexis McKinnon; 14 Great Grandchildren, 3 Great-Great grandchildren, and a host of nieces and nephews. In addition to her parents and siblings, Mrs. McKinnon was preceded in death by a son-in-law, Ed Tillman and infant grandson, Michael McKinnon. Funeral services for Mrs. McKinnon were held at 11 AM, Thursday, October 19, 2017 at Willacoochee United Methodist Church in Willacoochee, Ga., with Grandson, Pastor Tony McKinnon officiating and Pastor Lauri Hartley assisting. Special music included “Amazing Grace” rendered by Granddaughter Kim McKinnon, soloist with taped accompaniment.  Congregational hymns included “What a Day that Will Be” and “Victory in Jesus” with Beth Paulk accompanying at the piano. Soft music for the prelude was provided by Beth Paulk, as well. Interment followed at Satilla Memorial Gardens.  Serving as active pallbearers were Grandsons and Great-Grandsons:  Jason McKinnon, Britt Tillman, Matthew McKinnon, Cole McKinnon, Logan Merritt, Dylan McKinnon, Ty Leverette, and Dalton McKinnon. Relihan Funeral Home of Pearson, GA was in charge of the arrangements.