I was raised by the best parents in the world. They allowed me to be a kid for eighteen years and still managed to teach me how to be an adult. They were strict with me but managed to spoil me. We were a military family and moved a lot. I grew up seeing mountains and oceans and deserts and prairies. I saw America. I met people from all over the world, from all walks of life. I experienced different cultures and different religions. I joined in with all.

I was 22 years old when I married. I became the mother of the most beautiful boy in the world. I joined the Air Force and parted ways with my husband. Since then, I've had good relationships and bad ones. But I was left with wonderful memories from all. Why remember the bad things when the good things bring so much joy.

Then on September 15, 2003, I found home. Not just Sturgis, a specific place in Sturgis. It belonged to a woman who was later to become the best friend I've ever had. God truly blessed me when he put her in my life. There are no words on earth for what she has given to me. She brought me home. You know home. It's the place where joy and happiness and love dwell. The places where you feel safe and at peace. I don't know what I've done to deserve this, but I thank God for it every day. So, this was my life and I have been blessed. Through good times and bad. Hard times and easy times, I have been blessed. Thank you, God, for my wonderful life.

Laura was born April 22, 1951 to William and Mary (Slattery) Gilmore in Iowa. Laura passed away at Spearfish Canyon Healthcare on September 13, 2024 in Spearfish, South Dakota. She will be laid to rest on Friday, September 27, 2024, 10:00 at the Black Hill National Cemetery with military honors.

Condolences may be sent to the family at www.kinkadefunerals.