Laurel Emerson "Emery" Sturm

Laurel Emerson Sturm, “Emery”, passed away at home in her bed in the early morning hours of January 29, 2020. She was sixteen years old. Emery had an undiagnosed lifetime disability. She thrived in her condition and inspired many others to do the same.

Emery was born in Denver, Colorado on July 29, 2003 to Anna Faye and Chris Sturm. Emery was a comfort to those that loved her. She never said a harsh word; she never committed a sin. If one were to bring a worried mind to her, she would smile and laugh with them. She never asked for anything beyond almond milk, food, and love. She had an endless capacity for the latter.

Emery is survived by her parents, Anna Faye and Chris Sturm, her brother, Hoyt Irvin, her grandparents, Antoinette and Mark Sturm, and Eleanor Irvin. She is also survived by her loving aunts and uncles and cousins: Tinsley and Chris Hayes, Caroline and Carter; Bill Sturm, Marie, Willie and Ione; Kasey Sturm and Quentin Mostoller, Wyatt and Emma; Adam and Mary Elizabeth Sturm; and Elisabeth Sturm. Emery was predeceased by her grandfather, Neill Irvin. Emery is lovingly remembered by her caregiver and best friend, Jessica Williams and her husband Kyle.

We are grateful to our many friends and family that have supported us during Emery’s journey. We are especially grateful to those who knew her personally, those that were not afraid to see beyond her disability, and those that created their own bonds with her.

Laurel Emerson was named from the mountain laurel shrub, a plant that reminds her parents of their southern Appalachian roots. She was also named after the great romantic and transcendentalist, Ralph Waldo Emerson. Emerson’s words so clearly describe Emery: “No law can be sacred to me but that of my nature. Good and bad are but names very readily transferable to that or this; the only right is what is after my constitution; the only wrong what is against it.” Goodbye sweet Emery, our angel flying too close to the ground.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made via the link below.

In honor of Emery's memory, the memorial fund will be used to construct a public shelter in nature for respite and reflection.