Laura Jeanne Eames

Born on August 28, 1955, in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, she was the beloved daughter of the late Robert Gilberg and Martha J. Exner. In 1971, Laura moved to Columbia City, where she established deep roots and graduated from Columbia City Joint High School with the class of 1973.

Affectionately known as Laurie, her life was defined by her unwavering faith and her devotion to those around her. She loved Jesus first and foremost, followed closely by her family, her friends, and her dear coworkers and clients at ProFed Credit Union. Laurie possessed a beautiful singing voice and dedicated her life to using her gift to worship Jesus over the years at First Church of God in Columbia City. She loved the Church and spent many years serving, not just on the Choir team, but also in Children’s Ministry, and small groups, where she made lifelong friendships. Her later years were spent at Oak Grove Church of God, where she deepened her friendships with “the ladies” as she referred to her friends.

Her legacy lives on through her family. She is survived by her four children, Amy (Kris) Kolk of Norwalk, Ohio; Robert (Pam) Eames of Fort Wayne, Indiana; Sarah (Joseph) Gates of Noblesville, Indiana; and Kevin (Janica) Eames of Columbia City, Indiana. She also leaves behind 11 cherished grandchildren; Aydan, Ashton, Allyana, Amaya, Chloe, Jameson, Liliana, Janiah, Kinley, Kohen and Jagger, who all brought immense joy to her life.

Per Laurie’s wishes, there will be no public memorial service. Her family will honor her life privately, celebrating a life well-lived in service to her faith and her loved ones.