MCMAHAN

Laura Jo (Gilbert) McMahan passed away peacefully on Tuesday Jan. 13, 2026 at the age of 88. She was born in the Coble community of Hickman County, Tennessee on Oct. 6, 1937. Laura was seventh of nine children born to her parents, Ollie & Nettie (Reece) Gilbert. Laura Jo is preceded in death by both her parents, her husband of 50 years, James Houston McMahan, and her grandson, Rhyne McMahan Kemp. Also by her siblings: Wilma Gilbert, Virgie Estes, Maureen Stoltz, Nolan Gilbert, Neal Gilbert and Pearl Gilbert. Survivors include two daughters, Gale McMahan Kemp & Rose Marie Fletcher, Son-in-law-, Keith William Fletcher and three grandchildren, Laura Christine Fletcher Preko (Solomon), Elizabeth Kathryn Fletcher Ent (Jeffrey) and William James Fletcher, as well as her siblings Norval Gilbert and Hilda (Gilbert) Durham. Laura Jo was proud of her children and grandchildren, and she adored her five great-granddaughters, Lyanna, Adisa, Amaris, Billie and Alaina. She was loved dearly and will be sadly missed but her memory brings joy to those left behind. We will always remember her big hugs, happy smile, warm laugh and her love for God. Laura Jo worked for many years in various real estate offices as Receptionist and Office Manager. She was a long-standing member of the Church of Christ. She loved the Lord, reading scripture daily and serving Him all her life. For many years she lovingly prepared flower arrangements for the church, as well as unleavened bread for the Lord’s Supper at the churches she attended. Some of her happiest times were spent spoiling her grandchildren and great-grandchildren with coke-floats and Rice Krispie treats. Each one knew they were adored and special to their “Jojo.” Laura Jo also enjoyed exercising hospitality through the cooking of large country ham breakfasts for her dear friends as well as baking and delivering her old fashioned teacakes to friends and family, who lovingly declared her “The Cookie Lady”. She put love into every batch she made. Visitation was held Friday, Jan. 16, 2026, from 10:30 a.m. until noon with funeral services following at noon in the chapel of Central Funeral Home. A private family burial followed. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Shady Grove Cemetery in Morrison.

Central Funeral Home is honored to serve the McMahan family, 931-723-7774, centralfuneralhome.com