Laura Jean Berkman

Laura Jean Berkman, a beloved figure to many, passed away peacefully on February 13, 2025, in Killeen, Texas, surrounded by her cherished daughters. Born on August 4, 1960, in New Hartford, New York, Laura dedicated her life to caring for others, embodying compassion and love in every role she took on.

For the majority of her life, Laura worked as a certified nursing assistant, contributing her time and skills across several local nursing homes before becoming a home health aide with Metroplex Home Health Care. Her career was more than a job; it was a calling. Laura cared deeply for all her patients, always striving to make their lives easier and more comfortable. Her gentle spirit and unwavering commitment to aiding those in need left an indelible mark on everyone she encountered.

Beyond her professional life, Laura was a devoted mother and sister, famous for her loving nature. She found immense joy in her grandsons, Leon, 14, and Evan, 12, who brought light and laughter into her life. Her family was her world, and she adored every moment spent with them. Laura’s strength as a caregiver extended into her role as a mother, nurturing her daughters, Brittany and Shianne, with kindness and wisdom.

A woman of faith, Laura was a strong believer in God and Jesus, having been raised in the Catholic Church. In her spare time, she found solace in reading the Bible, drawing inspiration and strength from her faith, which she shared with her loved ones.

Laura is survived by her beloved daughters, Brittany Hernandez (Kyle Ward) and Shianne Smith, and grandsons Leon and Evan. She is also mourned by her siblings John Jr., Donald, Gary, Gladys, Pat, Sue (Bob) Giruzzi, Trudy (Alfonse) Nitti, and Louise (Paul) Rosinksi, who treasured their time with her. She is remembered and missed by her many friends, including David Sawyer. 

Her legacy is enriched by the memories of her dear parents, John Berkman, Sr. and Gertrude Perez, her brothers, Robert and David, and her sisters Georgina, Edith, and Nancy, who predeceased her. Each of them played a part in shaping the incredible woman Laura became.

As we celebrate the remarkable life of Laura Jean Berkman, we are reminded of her unwavering dedication, her profound love for family, and her unshakeable faith. Services honoring her life will be announced at a later date, as family and friends come together to remember her light and the love she so generously shared with the world.