Laura Brown Latimer

Laura Brown Latimer, beloved centenarian and family matriarch, died peacefully on August 9, 2023 at Carlyle McCoy in the presence of devoted family and caregivers. Born in Chesterfield SC on February 4, 1923, she was the daughter of the late Donald Austin Brown and Ella Price Brown.

Laura attended Meredith College, leaving in 1942 to support the war efforts at Woodward Field in Camden SC, used by the Army Air Forces Flying Training Command.

In 1949, she married James Latimer of Bishopville SC, where she raised her children and devoted professional and volunteer efforts to benefit the community.  Most notable was her 35-year tenure as Office Manager of Lee Academy, which was likened to her 6th child.

A devoted member of Bishopville Presbyterian Church, Laura sang in the choir and served in many leadership capacities.

In addition to her parents, she was pre-deceased by her husband of 46 years, James E. Latimer, Sr.  She was the last living sibling of a large family, including sisters Frances Brown and Elizabeth Griggs; brothers DaCosta, Jake, Lorraine, Don, Racine, Maurice and Yates Brown.  

She is survived by sons Charles Latimer (Ann), James E. Latimer, Jr. (Barbara), and David Latimer; daughters Frances Dunn (Dan) and Carol Finethy (Billy, deceased); grandchildren Brie Dunn Judy (Trae), Ashley Latimer, James Latimer (Alison), Matthew Finethy (Candace), Patrick Finethy; great-grandchildren Ellison Judy, Taylor Samadani, Madeleine Latimer, Winifred Latimer, Clement Latimer and Miles Latimer.

A celebration of life service will be held Sunday, August 13, 2023 at 3:00 pm at Bishopville Presbyterian Church with the Reverend Chris Parnell officiating directed by Norton Funeral Home, Bishopville. The family will receive friends in the Fellowship Hall after the service.  Burial will be private.

The family would like to thank the staff at Morningside of Camden, The Blake at Woodcreek Farms and Carlyle McCoy, especially Kiya Brown and Sarah Frazier for their devoted care and companionship.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Bishopville Presbyterian Church, PO Box 66, Bishopville SC 29010 or the charity of one’s choice. 

"A Life So Beautifully Lived, Should Be Beautifully Remembered."

Norton Funeral Home and Crematory is honored to serve the Latimer family.