Laura Bell Morton, age 81, peacefully transitioned on January 13, 2026, in Columbus, Ohio. She was born on August 22, 1944, in Sullivan, West Virginia, to Toney Jackson and Marie (Hicks) Jackson.

Laura was a woman of strength, grace, and unwavering love for her family. She lived a full life rooted in dedication, service, and joy. She graduated from Beckley High School in West Virginia in 1962. Shortly after high school, she attended vocational school, where she trained as a field technician. Laura later discovered her passion for cooking and went on to complete culinary school.

In 1964, Laura met the love of her life, Samuel Morton, at a social event in West Virginia. Their union blossomed into a lifelong partnership built on love, commitment, and friendship. Together, they later made Columbus, Ohio their home.

In the early 1970s, Laura joined Bethany Baptist Church, where she grew in faith and fellowship. Her church family was an important part of her life, and her faith helped guide her actions, relationships, and service to others.

In 1975, Laura began a long and meaningful career as a bus driver with the Columbus City Schools. She served faithfully until her retirement in 2006 from the Columbus, Ohio Board of Education. Her dedication to her work and care for the children she transported left a lasting impact on many families.

Laura embraced life fully and enjoyed staying active and engaged. She was a proud member of bowling and softball teams, loved fishing, and found joy in video games and crossword puzzles. She had a sweet spirit, a quick sense of humor, and a warm, outgoing personality that drew people to her. Laura was giving, strong, uplifting, and a natural leader. Above all, she was a great friend who showed up for others with love and encouragement.

Laura carried many cherished titles throughout her life: wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and aunt. Each role was fulfilled with devotion and pride.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Toney Jackson and Marie (Hicks) Jackson, and her siblings: James Turner, Robert Turner, Walter Jackson, Toney Jackson Jr., Mable Turner, Don Jackson, and Robert Jackson.

Laura leaves to cherish her memory her loving husband, Samuel Morton; her daughter, Lynette Morton; her grandchildren, Sean Morton and Shabriea Morton-Winters; and her great-grandchildren, Aniaya Morton, Elijah Morton, Alexander Morton, and Jaylen Morton. She is also survived by her siblings Norma (Clarence) Purdue, Rose Curry, and Ray Jackson, along with many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends who will forever hold her close in their hearts.

“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.”

— John 3:16 (KJV)