Barbara Ruth LaRose passed peacefully on September 25, 2024 surrounded by family and loved ones at the age of 83. She was born on September 28, 1940 to Samuel and Mabel Grayson. Barbara was the matriarch and rock of her family. She spent most of her life in New Orleans where she raised her two children and enjoyed a successful career in banking, most recently with Hancock Whitney. In fact, it was at the bank where she met the love of her life, Ken LaRose. Married in 1985, they joined two families together and raised their 4 children. She and Ken were married for 35 years until his death in 2020. Barbara loved spending time at the beach collecting seashells, gardening and spending time with her grandchildren. A selfless lady, she always put others first but it was her faith, kindness and positivity that really shined. Barbara was a member of Sand Ridge Baptist Church in Lexington, TN, where she faithfully worshipped the Savior she loved. Before moving to Tennessee, she attended First Baptist New Orleans where she loved the fellowship of her Sunday School class and church family. She was a source of joy, humor, and love until her final days. Barbara was preceded in death by her husband Kenneth LaRose, and her brother S.F. “Fritz” Grayson. She is survived by her children, Leonard D. Moecklin, Jr. (Lisa), Linda Ruth Comer (Marty), Leslie LaRose and Matthew LaRose, and five grandchildren, Taylor Comer, Rebekah Comer, Madeline Comer, Bryce Moecklin, and Cole Moecklin.
A service will be held at Pafford Funeral Home on Sunday, September 29th at 4 PM with visitation from 1:00 until 4:00. A Memorial service will be held in New Orleans on Tuesday, October 1 at 11:00 at Lake Lawn. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Sand Ridge Baptist Church Building Fund.
