Laura grew up in Holton, IN, attending Franklin College. She continued her education and graduated from the University of San Francisco. She went on to work for Ford Motor Company and Lockheed Martin Space from which she retired in 2002.
Laura was a devoted Christian woman. She knew and trusted God in all things. She was very active in churches she attended by teaching Sunday School and Baptism classes, serving on committees, witnessing, and being a servant leader. Laura loved to cook and entertain, whether serving hot meals for the less fortunate or hosting meals for families.
Hosting children's functions was a great blessing to her. She was a true blessing to all who got to know her.
Laura is survived by her sons, Todd Kelso and Jim (Lori) Payer Jr. Laura was caring and loving to her granddaughters, Rebecca (Carla) DeSilva and Ishelle Payer; and great-granddaughters, Aniyah and Arianna DeSilva. Laura is also survived by her brothers, Fred (Bobbi) Daugherty, Hugh (Connie) Daugherty, and Bill (Nancy) Daugherty; along with many nieces and nephews.
Laura was predeceased by her parents, Jacob and Helen; her husband, Jim Payer Sr.; daughter, Stephanie DeSilva; and a few nieces and nephews.
The funeral service will begin at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, June 26, 2025 at Memorial Baptist Church with Pastor Jesse Letourneau officiating. Entombment will follow at Garland Brook Cemetery.
Visitation will also be at the church on Thursday from 9:30 a.m. until service time.
Memorials in Laura’s name are suggested to the Shriner’s Children’s Hospital, American Cancer Society, or the Parkinson’s Foundation.
Please leave a fond memory of Laura at www.Myers-Reed.com.
