Laura Simpson Lott's Obituary
Laura Lott, born July 8, 1948, and raised in Wells, Texas, passed away on May 11, 2026, leaving behind a profound legacy of leadership, service, and compassion that touched countless lives across Texas. At an early age, Laura met a deaf child, an encounter that helped shape the course of her life and inspired her lifelong dedication to deaf education. She went on to devote 51 years to advancing opportunities for students who are deaf or hard of hearing, while strengthening the connection between educators, families, and communities.
Laura’s early life reflected a natural inclination toward leadership and excellence. She was recognized as Miss Wells Texas during her high school years, an early sign of the presence and poise that would define her life. She continued her education at Lon Morris College, earned her bachelor’s degree from Texas Christian University, and later completed her master’s degree at Stephen F. Austin State University.
In the early 1980s, Laura became the founding president of the Texas Association of Parents and Educators of the Deaf (TAPED). In this role, she helped establish a statewide foundation for collaboration, advocacy, and professional development that continues to benefit students and educators today. Her vision also contributed to the creation of the TAPED Statewide Conference, an enduring forum for sharing knowledge, building relationships, and advancing the field of deaf education.
Throughout her career, Laura also served in other roles where her influence often remained long after she had moved on. At Longview Regional, where she served as Director of Marketing, she was instrumental in helping establish the “rooming-in” program for newborns and their parents. Her time at Trinity School of Texas, a private school, reflected the same steady leadership, care, and commitment to progress that defined her life’s work. In each setting, she left lasting improvements that continue to benefit her community.
Laura served with distinction as the Director in Regional Day School Programs for the Deaf, including her leadership in Longview. She was deeply committed to student success, family engagement, and maintaining high standards of educational access and inclusion. Her work reflected both professional excellence and a sincere belief in the potential of every child.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Laura was known for her warmth and presence. She possessed a natural maternal instinct that made others feel welcomed, supported, and valued. She was a gracious host who brought people together with ease, rarely meeting a stranger and often leaving a lasting impression on those she encountered. Her sense of style and appreciation for beauty reflected the grace with which she carried herself throughout her life.
Those who knew her understood that she was a woman of strong character—at times complex, yet undeniably impactful. Her influence, both personal and professional, leaves a lasting mark. She is remembered as a woman of conviction, presence, and enduring significance, a woman among women.
She is survived by her devoted daughter, Karley Lott, and son-in-law, Enrique Moran, and by her high school sweetheart, Carl Brewer.
A celebration of life will be held on May 30 from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at the Longview Arboretum. Near the Water’s Edge Stage and Great Lawn, with parking at Maude Cobb.
Her life stands as a testament to service, leadership, and the power of bringing people together for a greater purpose.
What’s your fondest memory of Laura?
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Share a story where Laura's kindness touched your heart.
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