**Laura Lea (Smallwood) Webster**

**December 11, 1937 – September 18, 2024**

Laura Lea Webster, born in Bryan, Ohio on December 11, 1937, profoundly impacted those around her with her infectious wit, vivacious spirit, and her remarkable sense of humor. Known for her unforgettable character, she passed away peacefully in Mesa, AZ, on September 18, 2024.

Laura moved to Arizona as a young child, where she developed a fondness for life's simple pleasures and a penchant for pink. Her home was a haven of chocolate chip cookies, Texas sheet cake, and impeccably knitted, sewn, or crocheted treasures. Laura was a woman of many talents and passions, always engaging in activities that brought joy to her and those around her.

A regular at bingo, she was known as the “Pink Lady” due to her beautifully crocheted sweaters. She played thousands of games of Yahtzee, and was a fierce competitor in family poker games. Laura never shied away from a good laugh or a strategic move. Watching bull riding and tennis was not just a pastime; it was a passion, rivaled only by her affection for card games. Her famous pink Christmas tree was an iconic testament to her lively and unique persona.

Surrounded by a loving family, she is survived by her devoted husband of almost 69 years, Byron Webster, and her cherished children: Preston Webster, Jerry Webster and his wife Pamela (Marley), Larry Webster and his wife Ann Marie (Fantasia), and Don Webster. She was a proud grandmother to Mark S. Webster II and his wife Amber (Villalobos), Matthew Webster and his wife Nicole (Lamanes), Anthony Webster, Victoria Webster, Byron Webster, and Jahred Webster, and a delighted great-grandmother to Marlie Webster.

Laura's honesty and direct yet kind nature made her a confidant and a rock for many. She was loyal, considerate, generous, funny, ambitious, and consistently energetic. Her honesty was refreshing - she told it like it was with a grace that few could match. Laura never meddled in other lives but was always there with a ready smile and a heart full of kindness. She will be greatly missed by all those who were fortunate enough to have her in their lives.

Friends and family will gather to celebrate Laura's extraordinary life at Meldrum Mortuary, located at 52 N Macdonald, Mesa, AZ, on Thursday, September 26, 2024, from 11:00 am to 12:30 pm. Following the ceremony, Laura will be laid to rest at the National Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Phoenix, AZ, 2929 E Pinnacle Peak Rd.

A ‘Day to Remember Laura’ will be held on Saturday, October 19, 2024, from 10:00 am to 1:00 pm at 314 S 162nd St, Gilbert, AZ 85296. Friends and family are encouraged to gather, share stories, and honor the memory of Laura in the way that she lived: with laughter, love, and perhaps a game or two.

Those wishing to express their condolences are invited to send flowers to Meldrum Mortuary.

Laura Lea Webster's legacy is one of warmth, humor, and an unyielding zest for life. She leaves behind a world a little brighter, a little funnier, and infinitely richer for having known her.