Bill Laws

William Russell “Bill” Laws, Sr.

November 14, 1967 – February 6, 2025

With hearts full of love and sorrow, we celebrate the life of William Russell “Bill” Laws, Sr., who entered the arms of our Heavenly Father on February 6, 2025, at the age of 57. Though his time on this earth feels far too short, the impact he made on those who knew him will last for generations to come.

Born on November 14, 1967, in Columbus, MS, Bill was the beloved son of Richard Reuben Laws, Sr., and Frances Russell Laws. A 1986 graduate of Heritage Academy, he went on to Mississippi State University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration in 1990.

It was at Mississippi State where Bill’s greatest love story began. In the fall of 1989, while serving on the Fashion Board, he met Jami Kyle Simpson, who was campaigning for the Homecoming Court elections. In a playful twist of fate, Jami made a bet that if she won, she would go out with Bill—and as destiny would have it, she did. From the very first moment, it was clear—they were meant to be. On April 3, 1993, they joined their lives in marriage, beginning a journey filled with faith, laughter, and an unwavering devotion to one another. Their love only deepened with the arrival of their two cherished children, Kyle Olivia and William Russell, Jr., along with their beloved dog, Charlie Boo, who completed their family.

For Bill, family was everything. His greatest joy came from supporting and celebrating his wife and children. Whether it was watching Olivia cheer and be crowned Junior Auxiliary Charity Ball Queen or seeing William dominate on the tennis court and win a state championship, Bill was always their biggest fan. His home was filled with the warmth of family, the sound of William serenading them on the piano, and the love that only a devoted husband and father could give.

Bill’s passions extended beyond his family. He found immense joy in the outdoors—whether he was casting a fishing line, duck hunting with friends, or simply enjoying God’s creation. But if there was one thing Bill loved nearly as much as his family, it was cooking. To Bill, cooking was never just about food, it was a way to serve others, a way to bring people together, and a way to show love. His meals were legendary, not just for their flavor but for the heart he poured into every dish. What started as a hobby became a ministry, a way to nourish both the body and soul of those he loved. Watching his family and friends gather around the table, sharing laughter and stories over a meal he prepared, brought him immeasurable joy.

Above all, Bill was a man of deep faith. A lifelong member of Main Street Presbyterian Church, he dedicated over 30 years to serving as a deacon and contributing to numerous committees. Whether organizing the church fish fry, leading the Search Committee, or serving as Chairman of the Deacons, Bill was always ready to lend a hand wherever he was needed. His faith was not just something he spoke about—it was something he lived every single day.

Bill was a devoted husband, a loving father, a cherished son, a loyal brother, a treasured uncle, and an unwavering friend. His kindness, generosity, and servant’s heart left an indelible mark on the lives of so many. Though he is no longer with us in body, his spirit lives on in the countless lives he touched. His love, his laughter, and his legacy will never be forgotten.

Though we grieve, we do not grieve without hope. Bill’s love and light remain with us, and we find peace knowing that he now rests in the presence of his Savior, whole and rejoicing in eternal glory. His was a life well lived, a love well shared, and a soul well prepared for eternity.

Bill was preceded in death by his father, Richard Reuben “Poogie” Laws, Sr. He is survived by his beloved wife, Jami Simpson Laws of Columbus, MS; his daughter, Kyle Olivia Laws of Nashville, TN; his son, William Russell Laws, Jr. of Nashville, TN; his mother, Frances Russell Laws of Columbus, MS; his brother, Rich Laws and his wife Rebekah of Birmingham, AL; his sisters, Fran Laws of Starkville, MS, and Becky Anderson and her husband Matt of Nashville, TN; as well as a host of nieces, nephews, and countless friends who loved him dearly.

Pallbearers: Douglas Ford, Bob Phillips, Kenny Heredia, Hollis Peel, Ken Bishop, David Calhoun, Rich Laws, and Ben Laws.

Honorary Pallbearers: Brandt Galloway, Gee Allgood, Tom Jackson, Kenny Walz, Web Gholson, Shawn Dyson, and Glen Spell.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Main Street Presbyterian Church (P.O. Box 26, Columbus, MS, 39703) or the National Pancreas Foundation for pancreatitis research (3 Bethesda Metro Center, Suite 700, Bethesda, MD 20814).

To view the service via livestream, please use the following link: https://youtu.be/iSoTYk5g9gE