WICHITA — Surrounded by church family and loved ones, Jewel McLaurian marked an extraordinary milestone—her 102nd birthday—on March 19.
Following Sunday service at St. Paul AME Church, members of the congregation gathered to celebrate McLaurian, honoring a life rooted in education, service, and faith.
A lifelong educator, McLaurian dedicated her career to shaping young minds in Wichita, teaching at Little Elementary School and Woodman Elementary School. Her commitment to education extended beyond the classroom. Alongside her late husband, Julius McLaurian, an elementary school principal, she helped launch a tutoring program at St. Paul AME Church—continuing a shared mission to support students and families in the community.
Now at 102, McLaurian’s legacy continues through her family. She is the mother of two children, Dr. Marsha Butler and Michael McLaurian, and a proud matriarch to six grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild.
The birthday celebration brought together multiple generations, including a special moment with her 91-year-young sister, Bettie Lewallen, as well as children and great-grandchildren who gathered to honor her life and legacy.
At St. Paul, where she has poured so much of herself into others, the celebration reflected the deep impact of a woman whose life has been defined by service, education, and enduring faith.