Laurie A. Meulemans

Laurie A. Meulemans age 62, of Quincy, IL died on Thursday, December 12, 2024 in Blessing Hospital. She was born November 11, 1962 in DuQuoin, IL, a daughter of Ruth A. (Archer) Bigham. Laurie married Thomas P. Meulemans on June 24, 1994 and he preceded her in death on November 27, 2021.

Laurie was currently a First Grade Teacher at Baldwin Elementary School in Quincy. She was a graduate of Southern Illinois University in Carbondale. She had attended St. John United Church of Christ in DuQuoin. Most of all, Laurie loved being a mother. She had a big heart when it came to animals, having many dogs as well as fostering many animals over the years.

Survivors include her mom, Ruth Bigham of DuQuoin, IL; her three children, Tiffany Happel (Christopher) of Warrenton, MO, Matthew Meulemans of Quincy and Samuel Meulemans also of Quincy. A sister, Michelle DeLavern. Sisters-in-law Tina Bigham, Kathy Gitto (Stephen) and brother-in-law James Meulemans. Numerous nieces, nephews and other relatives also survive.

She was preceded in death by her husband, a brother Steven T. Bigham and a daughter, Naomi Meulemans, and brother and sister and-in-law, Terence Meulemans and Lesley Meulemans.

Cremation rites will be accorded. A Celebration of Laurie’s life will take place at a later date. Memorials are suggested to the American Society for the Protection of Animals orPups4Patriots. Arrangements are in the care of Duker & Haugh Funeral Home. Messages may be shared online at www.dukerandhaugh.com.

8 Comments

  1. Gaye Richmiller on December 16, 2024 at 3:15 pm

    RIP Laurie!! Such a kind a person!! Will miss our catch up visits!

  2. Alex post on December 16, 2024 at 6:39 pm

    Laurie will be missed. One of the nicest people I’ve ever met. Will always miss the chats we had after school. I hope she’s at peace now.

  3. Tiffany Happel on December 16, 2024 at 8:53 pm

    You are a beautiful human and mother. I can not thank you enough for a life of wonderful memories and support. I love you always.

  4. Rick Archer on December 16, 2024 at 9:33 pm

    Laurie was a great cousin. I’ll always remember how great it was going to Gma’s and seeing Laurie, we’d play tag, red light green light. She always had a great smile and the best laugh. I’m glad I got to share our birthdays.

  5. Loretta Archer, Tankersley!! on December 17, 2024 at 6:59 pm

    I was so proud of my niece Laurie! She always had a big grin and made everyone feel better! Rest in Peace, Sweet Laurie!!!

  6. Karla Smart on December 18, 2024 at 11:44 am

    I loved my cousin like a big sister growing up. We rode our bikes all over DuQuoin when I spent summers with Grandma and Grandpa Archer. Just a wonderful, loving and caring human. I pray that your wonderful memories will help you through this great loss. Prayers to all who knew and loved her.

  7. Rhonda Archer on December 18, 2024 at 11:52 am

    Laurie was a great cousin with a beautiful smile and a contagious laugh. It was great to go to Grandpa and Grandma Archers house to visit all the family and have fun with my cousins.
    Rest in peace until we meet again.

  8. Hickerson,Brandy,M on December 19, 2024 at 10:12 am

    Laurie was a great coworker; I had many great conversations with her about life and she was always so kind. The children at school loved her and she was always about building relationships with them. She will be missed by all who knew her. God bless her family.

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