Mildred (Millie) Kathryn Laurinas passed peacefully into her Heavenly home on Tuesday March 6, 2012. She was born December 19, 1917, Chariton, Iowa the daughter of Oreayla and Mary (Roberts) Cox.

She is survived by sister Betty (Gene) Arns, Des Moines, Iowa, daughter-in-law Karen Gilbert (Jim) Hartzler, London, Ohio. Granddaughters Stacey (John) Peters, Hilliard, Ohio, Shelly (Mark) Fugere, Fargo, ND, and grandson Ryan (Amy) Gilbert, Beavercreek, Ohio. She also leaves behind 6 great grandchildren, 1 great great-grandson, and many nieces and nephews, who affectionately called her “Aunt Puggy”.

She was preceded in death by parents, husbands John David Gilbert, George A. Laurinas, son Ivyl Lee Gilbert, sister Irene Wright, brother Arlo William Cox (age 3) and aunt Areala Cox.

Millie was a member of the Friendly Baptist Church, where she played the banjo. She leaves behind many dear friends including Bob and Sue Mabe.

Millie grew up and lived most of her life in central Iowa. She came from a musical family. Parents and sisters were all gifted musicians. In the 80’s, that love of music prompted her and George to move to the Branson area. George was a violin player and besides the banjo Millie played the keyboards and mandolin. They played at church, in the “Kitchen Band”, and at several other restaurants in the Branson area, including Bob Evans and McFarlands.

A celebration of Millie’s life will be held Saturday March 10th, 10 a.m. at the Friendly Baptist Church, 2751 Kirkland Dr. Branson, MO. Visitation will also be at the church, 9-10 a.m. on Saturday.

Funeral services are being provided by Adams Funeral Home in Nixa, MO., with graveside services at Highlandville Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Friendly Baptist Church and Hospice Compassus, 3044 Shepherd of the Hills Expy, Ste 200, Branson, MO 65616.