Laura Joan Cullen

Laura Joan Cullen, 88, of North Miami Beach, Florida, entered her eternal home, Friday, June 23, 2023, as she was surrounded by friends and family in her final days.

Dedicated mother to seven children, and proud grandma to nine grandchildren and seven great grandchildren. She was predeceased by her husband, Thomas Edward Cullen, and her parents, John and Laura Iasillo. She is survived by her children: Thomas, Susan Boley (Russ), Michael, MaryAnne Thaldorf (Thom), Lynn Zuniga (Johnny), Gerry (Kathy), and Joan Burns.

In addition she is survived by her cherished grandchildren:

John Jr (Ana), Kate (Ryan), Jennifer (Gio), Emily (Austin), Michelle (Josh), Jake (Kristi), Jenna, Julia, and Laura Voula and her great grandchildren: JJ, Kaylee and Rylee, Oliver, Liam and Kinsley, and MacKenzie.

Laura was born and raised in Fort Lee, NJ. She enjoyed playing piano at the Academy of the Holy Angels, Class of '53. She met her husband, Thomas, in CYO and married in 1954. After starting a family, they moved to North Miami Beach, Florida where she lived in the same home until 2019. She then relocated  to Covenant Living Retirement Community in Plantation, Florida until her death. 

She was very involved at St. Lawrence Catholic Church as a longtime member, active in the CCW, planning committee for carnivals and working in the cafeteria while her children attended school there. Many of her life long friends were from this church community.  In addition, she had a career with Barry University as a library technician until she retired to care for her aging parents. She later returned to her love of classical music and volunteered for the Chopin Society. 

Her family was her life, always busy celebrating someone's birthday or large gathering and was happiest with her family and friends around the long dinner table! Her entire family is eternally grateful for the exceptional role model she was in caring for those around her and for the countless growth and educational opportunities she provided. 

In lieu of flowers, please take time to have a meal with someone who can benefit from your conversation, time and love!  Or make a "Memorial" donation in her name to Canine Assisted Therapy (one of Laura's favorite programs in her retirement community):  https://catdogs.org/donate/

Visitation will be Thursday, June 29th, 9:00AM-10:30AM, at T. M. Ralph Plantation Funeral Home, 7001 NW 4th St, Plantation, FL, 33317. Mass of Christian Burial will immediately follow at 11:00AM, at St. Gregory the Great Catholic Church, 200 N University Dr, Plantation, FL 33324. Following Mass, she will be laid to rest with her late husband, Thomas, at Our Lady of Mercy Cemetery in Doral at 1:30PM.