Family will receive friends on Saturday, June 21, 2025 at 9:00 a.m. until time of service at 10:00 a.m. at White's Funeral and Cremation Services, 867 S. James Road, Columbus, OH 43227.Interment: Eastlawn Cemetery. This service will be livestreamed. 

LAURA ELLEN TOMS OBITUARY

Some lives are measured in years. Others—like that of Laura Ellen Toms—are measured in generations, prayers, and the legacy they leave behind. At 101 years old, Laura completed her earthly assignment and peacefully transitioned in her sleep as the Lord gently took her hand on June 9, 2025, in Columbus, Ohio.

Born on February 24, 1924, in Elliston, Virginia, to the late Andrew and Mary Dow, Laura was part of a generation that endured, believed, and built strong foundations for the families that would follow. She was the epitome of a praying grandmother—steadfast in faith, generous with her love, and rooted in the values of marriage and family. She and her beloved husband, Arthur L. Toms, shared 44 years of marriage before his passing, and together they raised children and grandchildren who carry their values forward.

A proud graduate of Christiansburg Institute High School in Christiansburg, Virginia, Laura later devoted over 30 years of faithful service to Ohio State University Hospital in Columbus. Her steady hands and compassionate spirit left a mark not just in her workplace, but in the lives of those she touched daily.

Laura was a self-taught artist with a God-given eye for beauty. Her colorful landscapes and heartfelt paintings found homes across the Midwest and the South, quietly blessing walls and warming hearts. Known by many as the “Hallmark Lady,” she had a sacred gift for sending cards—each one handwritten in her elegant script, each one filled with personalized prayers and encouragement. Those cards became treasured keepsakes, often arriving at just the right time.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Arthur; her sons, Melvin and Larry Toms; and nine siblings. Laura is survived by her devoted daughter, Shirley Ann Toms; grandchildren Coyla G. Black, Bradley (Marie Yolaine) Toms, and Chay (Demicha) Rankin; four great-grandchildren; four great-great-grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, extended family, and dear friends. Her life touched five generations—and her influence will live on for many more.

The family offers heartfelt thanks to Vivian Rankin and Angel White for their compassionate care during Laura’s illness, and to the dedicated team at Mt. Carmel Hospice for walking alongside them with grace and kindness.

To know Laura was to be prayed for, to be seen, and to be loved. We give thanks for her 101 radiant years—and for the blessing of being part of her story.