Roman Malachi Laury

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Roman Malachi Laury, age 5 months, of Mansfield, died Friday afternoon, September 4, 2026 at Akron Children’s Hospital in the loving arms of his parents. 

Roman was born on March 6, 2026 in Akron City Hospital weighing just 3 pounds, 13 ounces. Diagnosed with Miller-Dieker Syndrome shortly after birth, Roman proved although he may be tiny, he was mighty and spunky from the very beginning. Even as a newborn, he gave his nurses a run for their money, a little glimpse of his personality and determination. Roman faced challenges but those challenges never defined the sweet little boy his family knew and adored. Although his life was far too short, he filled the smallest moments with love and joy, and he knew a lifetime of love from those around him.

Roman loved to swing and could often be found cozy in his footed pajamas.  He was content to watch any kind of light and always had wonder in his eyes. He loved being kissed and tickled, rewarding those around him with the biggest gummy, toothless smile. And then there was Roman’s unforgettable side-eye, especially when something was happening that he did not particularly approve of, which never failed to make his family smile.

One of Roman’s favorite things was his pea pod, which he adored and would hold onto tightly. He also had his own special way of announcing when it was time to eat, making the same little sound over and over until everyone understood exactly what he wanted. More than anything, Roman knew the comfort and security of his mom. The sound of her voice and her familiar scent could calm him in a way nothing else could.

Roman’s life was measured not by the number of days he was given, but by the love that filled each one. He was deeply cherished from the moment he entered this world and will forever remain a beautiful and unforgettable part of his family. He is survived by his parents: Ashton and Sarah Laury of Mansfield; his big brother: Atlas; his paternal grandparents: Allan and Deanna Laury of Lexington; his aunts and uncles: Avery Laury (Chris Bostrom), Andrew Laury, Alivia Laury, and Allison Laury: great grandmother: Jeanette Laury; great grandfather: Arthur Butler; and numerous aunts, uncles, other relatives and friends.  He was preceded in death by his maternal grandmother: Mary Jo Canale; great grandparents: Daniel and Alma Jean Canale and Alice Butler. 

Family and friends are welcome on Thursday, September 10, 2026 from 5-9 pm at the Penwell Funeral Home, 168 West Main Street, Shelby. Roman’s Funeral Mass will be on Friday, September 11, 2026 at 11 am at St. Hilary Parish, 2750 West Market Street, Fairlawn, Ohio 44333. Fr. Steve Brunovsky will celebrate the mass. For those wishing, memorial contributions may be to Akron Children’s Hospital Palliative Care Center General Fund (https://give.akronchildrens.org/give)

Condolence may be left on the funeral home’s website (PenwellFuneralHome.com) or Facebook page.