Loretta Ann Grandin Been, 86, of Laurel, MS passed away on December 24, 2023 surrounded by her loving family.  She was born in Morgan City, LA on January 20, 1937 to Alfred and Mary Grandin.  Loretta was a lifelong Catholic and a member of Sacred Heart Church in Pierre Part, Louisiana.  This spunky Cajun lady learned to speak English when she started school, and she and her siblings taught the language to their parents who arrived in America from Canada during their childhood. She was a business owner at several points in her life and worked for the MS Forestry Commission for 15 years.  She spent decades enjoying her passions for gardening, traveling, sewing and helping others with projects.  She found most of her enjoyment by being with loved ones as they gathered to enjoy her Cajun cooking and stories of Louisiana houseboat living.

Loretta was preceded in death by her parents, siblings, and grandchild (Angel).

She is survived by her spouse, Don Been, and children Jim Beach, Jr. (Ronda), Barry Beach (Karen), Jaretta Pierce (Dave), Tucker Beach (Mitzi), and Desiree Beach (Kellie).  She is also survived by 11 grandchildren and 8 great-grandchildren.

Visitation will be held on Friday, December 29, 2023 from 4:00PM until 8:00PM at Big Creek Baptist Church in 28 Big Creek Church Rd, Soso, MS. Colonial Chapel Funeral Home of Laurel is in charge of arrangements. 601-649-3342