Laura “Laurie” Havir

October 23, 1957 – January 17, 2026

Surrounded by the love of her family and holding the hand of her beloved partner of twenty years, Laura “Laurie” Havir peacefully left her earthly home to be with God on January 17, 2026.

Born at Deaconess Hospital, Laurie spent her life in the Cleveland area and never strayed far from the place she called home. Education was the cornerstone of Laurie’s life. She graduated from John Marshall High School, Class of 1975, and went on to earn her bachelor’s degree in education from Bowling Green State University. She later completed her master’s in education through Kent State University and the University of Akron.

Laurie dedicated her career to helping children who needed it most. She served as an intervention specialist (special education teacher) at Normandy High School in the Parma City School District. In addition to her classroom work, she was deeply involved in student activities, serving as a cheerleading instructor and working with the marching band’s majorettes, including the Normandy Dazzlers, who performed at football games, parades, and community events.

Even in retirement, Laurie could not step away from her passion for education. She continued serving students through the Cuyahoga County Public Library’s 1-2-3 Read literacy program, tutoring children in grades one through three. She coordinated the program at the South Euclid branch, where she touched countless families through her care, dedication, and belief in every child’s potential. Families, staff, and volunteers consistently spoke of Laurie’s kindness, patience, and unwavering commitment to the children she served.

Laurie was passionate about drum corps, especially the Bluecoats, and had a deep love for the arts, particularly independent artists and galleries. She never knew a stranger and formed genuine bonds with everyone she met—from neighbors to her hairdresser and pharmacist. She was known for bringing delicious desserts to family gatherings and delighted in sharing sweet treats with those she loved. Her dogs were an important part of her life, including her beloved West Highland Terriers and her cherished Bichon, Dylan.

In her younger years, Laurie loved to dance, a joy captured in home videos filled with laughter and carefree movement. She had a fond love for apple strudel—a favorite so meaningful that it will be lovingly remembered and shared in her honor. She loved music, especially Michael Bublé and Jason Mraz. She was also a devoted fan of Craig Ferguson, often sacrificing sleep to watch new episodes with family.

Laurie was preceded in death by her father, Edward Havir; her mother, Mildred “Millie” (Hulec) Havir; and her beloved dog, Dylan. She is survived by her loving partner, Don Heegan; her stepchildren, Justin (and wife, Megan) Heegan and Katherine (and husband Justin) Southward; and her brother, Mark Havir (and wife Lisa Martin).

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the 1-2-3 Read literacy program. Checks can be made out to Cuyahoga County Public Library with "123 Read" in the designated box or in the memo for mail in donations. Mail in donations may be made to:

Cuyahoga County Public Library

Attn: Finance Department

2111 Snow Road Parma, Ohio 44134

 “Remember what it was that you loved most about those you have lost and be that. Keep those memories alive.”

— Tara Shannon, Bear and Rabbit

Service at the funeral home Saturday, January 24, 2026 at 2 p.m. Family and friends received at THE RIPEPI FUNERAL HOME, 5762 PEARL RD. (AT SNOW RD.), SATURDAY 1-2 P.M.