Biography:

Laurie McKinney Short, 85, was surrounded by the love of her family when she passed away.

Born on July 20, 1941, Laurie grew up in Denison, Texas. She later moved to Galveston, where she attended nursing school and began a remarkable career dedicated to caring for others. She eventually made Little Rock, Arkansas, her home, where she lived for most of her life.

Laurie devoted more than 40 years to her profession as a Registered Nurse at Doctors Hospital. Throughout her distinguished career, she served in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), Coronary Care Unit (CCU), and Emergency Department, where she was known for her skill, compassion, and steady presence. She also taught CPR to countless individuals, sharing her knowledge and equipping others with lifesaving skills. After retiring, Laurie continued her commitment to helping others by volunteering with Senior Net, where she taught technology skills to seniors and helped them stay connected in an increasingly digital world.

Outside of nursing, Laurie enjoyed playing bridge with the same wonderful group of friends for more than 30 years. She also loved trips to Tunica and the excitement of playing her favorite Triple Diamond slot machines. She especially treasured time with her family and found her greatest joy in taking her grandchildren on outings, celebrating life's milestones, and creating cherished memories with them.

Laurie was preceded in death by her mother, Jane McKinney Fuller; her father, Curtis McKinney; her stepfather, Harry Fuller; and her beloved grandson, Matthew Murray.

She is survived by her devoted husband, Richard Short; her sons, Powell Hazzard (Cathy), Curtis Hazzard (Cindy), and Anthony Short (Kim); her daughter, Ginna Murray (Andy); her sisters, Ashley Bourne (Chris) and Vinnie McKinney; her brother, Charles McKinney; and her grandchildren, Lindsey Groth (John), Sarah Sweat (Matt), Drew Murray, and Gabe Short. She also leaves behind four beloved great-grandchildren, as well as many extended family members, dear friends, former colleagues, and all whose lives were touched by her kindness and generosity.

Laurie will be remembered for her compassionate heart, unwavering dedication to helping others, her strength, and deep love for her family. Her legacy lives on in the countless lives she touched through her nursing career, her volunteer work, the friendships she nurtured, and the love she shared so freely.

A visitation will be held at Ruebel Funeral Home, 6313 West Markham Street, Little Rock, Arkansas 72205, on Saturday, July 25, 2026, at 12:00 PM, followed by a funeral service celebrating Laurie's life at 1:00 PM.

Though she will be deeply missed, Laurie's legacy of compassion, service, and unconditional love will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

 In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made in Laurie's honor to Alzheimer's Arkansas or the American Heart Association.