We are devastated to share that our beloved Laura Elizabeth Harbison passed away from complications after surgery on April 16, 2026. Laura was an adored daughter, sister, aunt, fiancé, and friend whose kindness and generosity touched everyone who knew her. She had a rare gift for making people feel seen, supported and loved, and she carried that gift into every part of her life.

The youngest of three siblings, Laura had a close, supportive bond with her brother and sister, shaped by their upbringing in a military family. Through frequent moves, Laura developed a strong sense of resilience and adaptability, while cultivating an open-minded perspective that enabled her to connect meaningfully with people from all backgrounds.

Among her many gifts, Laura possessed a brilliant intellect, quick wit and passion for reading. Her educational path took her from Punahou School in Hawaii to The Ensworth High School in Nashville where she was a National Merit Scholar Finalist. Laura continued to Washington University in St Louis, graduating with a Bachelor of Arts in Geophysics and Seismology and completed postgraduate studies at Lipscomb University with a Master of Education (Mathematics) and at Belmont University with a Master of Accountancy.

Reflecting her passion for service, Laura began her career with Teach for America, continued as a tutor at The Martha O’Byan Center, and as a STEM teacher with Metropolitan Nashville Public Schools, KIPP, and LEAD Charter schools. She then found meaningful work as an Accounting Supervisor at Promises Behavioral Health, an organization that aligned her professional life with her deep compassion and commitment to making a difference in people’s lives.

Her dedication to helping others was most evident in her rewarding work within the recovery community. Deeply involved in Alcoholics Anonymous, Laura sponsored and mentored countless individuals, walking alongside them in their journeys with compassion, humility, and unwavering encouragement. She served as a beacon of hope and a pillar of strength for her many friends, which aided their growth and spiritual development.

The same compassion extended to her love of animals, especially dogs. Over the years, Laura adopted and fostered many, giving them safety, care and a better life. We are comforted that she is reconnected with her beloved Raven.

Laura lived in Nashville with her fiancé, the love of her life. Bright and endlessly curious, she approached life with him as a proud Ravenclaw who loved puzzles, Legos and hosting game nights with friends. Together, they shared these passions, as well as an ardor for the outdoors, often taking their two dogs, Goose and Rambo, on adventures.

Laura’s life was defined by love, service, and resilience. She gave so much of herself to others without ever asking for recognition, and her impact will be felt for years to come. The world is dimmer without her, but her light lives on in those whose lives she touched.

In addition to her many friends, cousins, aunts and uncles, left behind to cherish her are her parents, Jim and Beth Harbison; her fiancé, David Richey Jr.; her sister, Kathleen “Katie” Harbison; and her brother, sister-in law, and two nieces, Greg Demmon-Harbison, Kathy Demmon-Harbison, and Brooke and Maisie Demmon-Harbison.

A celebration of Laura’s life will be held on May 4, 2026 at 5:30 PM at Cheekwood Estate & Gardens, 1200 Forrest Park Drive, Nashville, TN, followed by a reception. In honor of her memory, all are welcome to celebrate the joy and love she brought into the world. Please wear colors.

A private family interment ceremony will occur at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in her name to Friends Life Community, 4414 Granny White Pike, Nashville, TN 37204.

LIGON & BOBO FUNERAL HOME of Lebanon (615) 444-2142 www.ligonbobo.com