Laura Gale McCleese

Laura Gale McCleese, age 71, of Wheelersburg, passed away peacefully at home on November 7, 2025. Born on July 25, 1954, in Portsmouth, she was the cherished daughter of the late Herman and Lenna Louise Turner Raynard and a devoted member of the Frederick Free Will Baptist Church.

Laura dedicated her life to education, graduating from South Webster High School before earning her master’s degree in education from Rio Grande University. She joyfully taught 4th grade at South Webster Elementary until her retirement, leaving a lasting impact on her students and community.

Laura is survived by her loving husband, Don McCleese; her son, Rocky Shane Collier; two stepsons, Kyle (Sarah) McCleese and Chris (April) McCleese; a stepdaughter, Erica (John) Mott; and six wonderful grandchildren, Ava, Bradley, Isaac, Jaiden, Kylee, and Colton.

A service to honor Laura’s life will be held at BRANT FUNERAL HOME in Sciotoville on Tuesday, November 11, 2025, at 1:00 p.m., with Pastor Rusty Lowder officiating. Interment will take place in South Webster Cemetery. The family invites friends and loved ones to gather at Brant's from 11:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. on the day of the service to pay their respects and celebrate Laura's life.

In this difficult time, we remember Laura for her kindness, dedication to education, and the love she shared with her family and friends. She will be deeply missed.