Obituary published on Legacy.com by Oakwood Funeral Home and Crematory - Maplewood on Feb. 7, 2025.
Lauretta Elaine Southall Grady was born on February 11, 1951, in Chicago, IL, to Ruth Davis and Royal Southall Sr. She passed away peacefully on February 3, 2025, in Oakdale, MN, just days before her 74th birthday.
Lauretta was a woman of deep faith, boundless love, and unwavering dedication to helping others. She attended Burnside Elementary School and graduated from Harlan High School before earning her bachelor's degree in Psychology from the University of Illinois at Chicago. She later obtained a Master's degree in Criminal Justice from Chicago State University.
She dedicated her career to serving others and retired from the Cook County Public Defender's Office, where she worked tirelessly to help those in need of legal representation.
Her life was guided by her passion for church, family, and service. She was an active member of her local church, serving on Missionary boards and dedicating her time to uplifting those in need. She found great fulfillment in volunteering at the Salvation Army, where she helped serve meals to the homeless. Although she had long ago given her life to Christ, she made the deeply personal decision to be baptized in July 2024, just before relocating to Minnesota.
In her final months, Lauretta found the greatest joy in spending time with her beloved twin granddaughters, creating cherished memories with them and her family.
She is survived by her son, Raymond; daughter, Rashila; son-in-law, Jatone; and three granddaughters, Jamilia, Morgan, and Monroe. She also leaves behind her sisters, Teri Southall and Marjorie Tatum; and her brothers, Royal Southall Jr., Kevin Southall, and Anton Tatum along with several nieces and nephews. Her love, wisdom, and kindness will forever live on in their hearts.
Per Lauretta's wishes, no funeral or service will be held. She requested to rest quietly and in peace, and her family has honored her request with a private cremation.
In honor of Lauretta's life and legacy, donations may be sent to Rashila Grady Smith via:
• Cash App: $Rashila
• Zelle: 312-285-1216
• PayPal:
[email protected]Her light and love will never be forgotten.
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