Laurette LaPrarie, a cherished educator and beloved member of the Farmingville, NY community, passed away on March 23, 2025, at the age of 56. Born on July 18, 1968, in Bay Shore, New York, Laurette dedicated her life to inspiring young minds as a fourth-grade teacher at Ridge Elementary School within the Longwood Central School District.
With nearly 25 years of unwavering commitment to education, Laurette left an indelible mark on countless students, colleagues, and families. Her kindness, patience, and dedication were evident in every lesson she taught and in the warm relationships she fostered. Superintendent Dr. Lohman described her as “one of our most beloved teachers,” recalling the joy she brought to the classroom and the deep connections she formed with her students. A former student fondly remembered her creativity, recounting how she once dressed as George Washington to make history come alive for her students.
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Beyond the classroom, Laurette was a devoted daughter, sister, aunt, mentor, and friend. She had a gift for making everyone feel welcome, greeting people with her ever-present warm smile. Her selflessness and compassion were felt by all who knew her, and her absence leaves a profound void in the lives of her loved ones.
As the Longwood community mourns this tremendous loss, support services have been made available for students, staff, and families to help navigate this difficult time. Laurette’s legacy will live on in the hearts of those she touched, and her impact will continue to inspire generations to come.
Services to Honor Laurette LaPrarie:
- Visitation: Thursday, March 27, 2025, from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM
Branch Funeral Home of Miller Place, 551 Route 25A, Miller Place, NY 11764 - Mass: Friday, March 28, 2025, at 10:00 AM
Good Shepherd RC Church, 1370 Grundy Avenue, Holbrook, NY 11741 - Interment: Friday, March 28, 2025, at 11:30 AM
St. Charles Cemetery, Wellwood Ave., Farmingdale, NY 11735
Friends, colleagues, and former students have shared heartfelt tributes in memory of Laurette. Kerri Frend expressed, “Words alone cannot mend your broken hearts. I will always have fond memories of Laurette. Fly high, my friend, you have many angels waiting for you.” Cynthia Di Salvo LaPrarie shared, “Today I held her hand while I said goodbye to my sister-in-law Laurette. I am beyond broken. I know her brother welcomed her with angel wings.”
Laurette LaPrarie’s unwavering kindness, dedication, and love for teaching will forever be remembered. May she rest in eternal peace.