Laura Getchell

It is with bittersweet hearts that we announce the passing of Laura Wilkins Getchell, 52, on November 17, 2024, at her home in Rome, GA. Laura passed away comfortably, surrounded by her loving family. She now lives peacefully with her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, but we must learn to live life without her loving presence.
Born on April 26, 1972, in Sweetwater, TN, Laura was the embodiment of strength, love, and dedication. She was married for 26 years to her husband, Glenn Alan Getchell, and together they built a beautiful life and family filled with love, laughter, and cherished memories.
Laura earned her Master of Science degree from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, and worked passionately as a Speech Language Pathologist at Garden Lakes Elementary School. She found immense joy in helping children overcome speech and language challenges, and her Garden Lakes family held a special place in her heart. She truly believed that Life was Better at the Lakes. Though she was a devoted Tennessee Vol at heart, Laura embraced cheering for the Georgia Bulldogs in recent years as her children pursued their education at UGA. She loved working out with her friends and family at Rome Strength & Fitness, cheering on her kids at every opportunity, and keeping Glenn and dear friend Jeff Holloway in line with her organizational skills and no-nonsense get-things-done attitude. Fiercely loyal, independent, and deeply compassionate, Laura was the person you wanted in your corner when life became challenging.
Laura is survived by her husband, Glenn, and their children; Wilkins Alan Getchell (and daughter-in-law Mackenzie Marable Getchell), of Chattanooga, TN, Elizabeth Grace Getchell, of Rome, GA, and Hamza Abdalfatah, of Rome, GA, who was cherished by Laura as a son. She is also survived by her mother, Mary Wilkins; brother, Craig Wilkins, and his wife Shelley Wilkins; niece, Shyla Wilkins; and many extended family members and dear friends. She was preceded in death by her father, Clifford Wilkins.
Laura's family will host a visitation Thursday, November 21, 2024 from 4:00pm-6:00pm and celebration of her life on Friday, November 22, 2024 at 12:30pm. All who knew and loved her are welcome to attend as we honor her incredible life and legacy. Both occasions will be held at West Rome Baptist Church on Shorter Avenue in Rome, GA.
The Getchell family wishes to express their deepest gratitude for the overwhelming support they received during Laura's courageous battle with brain cancer. Special thanks go to Emily Threlkeld, Laurie Mayfield, Deann Richardson, Paige Burke, Lynda Karakos, and Kim Summerall, whose love and assistance was the energy that helped the family survive this difficult cancer battle. The family also extends heartfelt thanks to Dr. Burt Nabors at UAB Hospital and the compassionate staff at Heyman Hospice.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Summit Quest, a ministry supporting children impacted by cancer, to honor Laura's legacy of love and care for others. Donations can be received by check at PO Box 1135, Rome, GA 30162 or online at www.mysummitquest.org.
Laura lived an intentional and beautiful life, marked by love and generosity. She was loved well and loved deeply in return. Though her absence leaves a void, we take joy in ensuring her legacy of kindness, loyalty, and strength continues to shine brightly.
Henderson & Sons Funeral Home, Oaknoll Chapel, is honored to serve the family of Laura Wilkins Getchell.