Beverly Leigh (Norman) Laird

Beverly was born to Birdie Leigh and Dudley Norman on January 29, 1938 in Shreveport, Louisiana. Growing up in Shreveport, she was always curious, creative, and possessed an insatiable sense of adventure. She graduated from CE Byrd High School and attended Northwestern University where she received her degree in education. As a student, she was involved in musical theater among many other pursuits. Beverly was Miss Louisiana in 1957 and went on to the Miss America pageant. She also had a passion for water sports including synchronized swimming, diving, and water skiing. An accomplished singer, she appeared in many musical productions and television specials including The Ed Sullivan Show and The Louisiana Hayride.

In 1963, she married Dr. Loma L. Laird in Shreveport and relocated to Denver, Colorado where Dr. Laird began his medical residency at the University of Colorado. Beverly taught mathematics and while newlyweds in Colorado, they developed a lifelong love of skiing. After moving to Houston, Texas, Dr. Laird completed his residency in radiology and they welcomed their first child. They later made their home in Nacogdoches, Texas where they raised all five of their children and built their life as a family. Both Beverly & Loma were active in the community throughout their time there. Dr. Laird became a founding physician at the Medical Center Hospital and Beverly was a long standing member of the Medical Auxiliary, where she served as President. She was also involved in multiple charitable organizations, school associations, and she was a member of First Baptist Church.

Throughout her life, her great pride and joy were her children. She shared her love of snow skiing, travel and music with her entire family and friends. Beverly was always known as a great beauty with a radiant smile, unforgettable voice and a gracious sense of style. She loved capturing photos, holidays, and her home was always filled with celebrations and events. A vibrant force within all the lives of the people she touched- her passion, drive and determination will live on through her family, her closest friends, and all of those who loved her.

Later in her life, she relocated to San Antonio, Texas and she devoted her time and attention to her six grandchildren, who all affectionately called her “Mom Mom.” She also adored her miniature Schnauzers Sassy, Sam, Spencer, and Max who were always by her side.

Her last moments on Earth were filled with music, memories, faith, family and love. Her children know she is now in Heaven dancing with her great love Loma and reunited with her beloved parents and sister.

She is survived by her son Trey Laird, his former wife Jenny and their two children Allison & William all of New York, NY. Her daughter Dana Laird and her son Loma Lake, of San Antonio, TX. Her son Trenton Laird and his daughter Ashton of Fort Worth, TX. Her daughter Trecia Laird of New York, NY. And her daughter Danielle Kieschnick, her husband Brooks and their two children Michael Brooks and Avery all of San Antonio, TX. She is also survived by her brother, Dudley “Buddy” Norman, of Bossier City, LA and her sister Miriam Burby of Frisco, TX.

She is preceded in death by her husband, the late Dr. Loma L. Laird. Her parents Birdie Norman Laird and Dudley Norman and her sister Sue Wright Ledbetter.

A funeral service will be held at the First Baptist Church chapel in Nacogdoches,TX on Thursday June 9, 2022 at 3pm followed by a private family graveside service. A reception will be held at The Fredonia Hotel from 5pm onward. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that donations be made to the Alzheimer's Association at act.alz.org.

Arrangements are being made by Cason Monk-Metcalf.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.casonmonk-metcalf.com for the Laird family.