Laura McClelland-Harms

Laura Beth McClelland-Harms, age 56, formerly of O’Fallon, Ill., and presently of South Elgin, Ill., passed away Tuesday, October 6, 2026, leaving the world a little less bright. Laura was a beloved daughter, mother, sister, friend, colleague, and teacher whose kindness and joyful spirit touched everyone who knew her.

Born June 14, 1970, in Belleville, Ill., she grew up in O’Fallon, graduated from O’Fallon Township High School, and earned an undergraduate degree in Political Science from SIU Carbondale before discovering her true calling in education and earning her teaching degree. For more than 30 years, Laura devoted herself to teaching middle school English in the Elgin Area School District U-46. She cared deeply about helping her own children thrive and encouraging her students to believe in themselves. Lovable and genuinely caring, Laura was a supportive mom, friend, and colleague. She had a gift for making people feel welcome and valued, and her bright personality, ready smile, and wonderful sense of fun filled rooms with laughter. 

Laura is survived by her mother Cherie McClelland, brother Chris McClelland, sister Lisa (Brett) Meisel; her three children Hayden Harms, Helena (Fiance Quinn) Harms, and Andrew Harms; aunt Nancy (Tony) Kohrig, uncle Raymond (Patty) Burke, nephews Cody and Riley McClelland; and fiancé Andy Wills.

She was preceded in death by her father Richard McClelland; grandparents Bud and Lucille McClelland and Fred and Dorothy Burke; and sister-in-law Terri McClelland. Visit https://everloved.com/life-of/laura-mcclelland-harms/ for details on memorial donations and to share memories with Laura’s family.

The family will receive friends from 6 – 8 pm, Monday, October 19, 2026 at Wolfesberger Funeral home, 102 W. Washington St., O’Fallon, Ill.

Funeral Service will begin at 11 am, Tuesday, October 20, 2026 at Wolfersberger Funeral Home, O’Fallon. Burial will follow at Valhalla Gardens of Memory, Belleville, Ill. Wolfersberger Funeral Home, O’Fallon, is serving the family. www.wfh-ofallon.com.