Joan Laughery

Joan was born on May 18, 1941, in Yakima to William and Morae (Waters) Smyth. She grew up in Naches Heights and Yakima, graduating from Davis High School in 1959. During high school Mom worked at the A&W Root Beer Stand in Yakima as a car hop and short order cook.

While in high school, Mom's good friend, Evelyn (Dwinell) Hatheway, introduced her to Olan Laughery, and just two days after graduating from high school, they were married on June 5th, 1959.

Mom and Dad eventually settled in Naches in the house she had fallen in love with while dating Dad and lived there for 50 years. Mom was a stay-at-home mother until she became the Naches Librarian in 1978, a position she held for eight years. She then worked at the bank in Naches, Encore Books and filled in at the library before returning full time to the Naches Library in 1994. She remained there until retiring in 2007. As Mom often said, she worked at the library for 27 happy years.

After retirement, Mom and Dad enjoyed camping and spending time with their lifelong friends, Jack and Evelyn Hatheway and Lonnie and Melba Brooks.

Mom is survived by her children, Barb (Gary), Janet, and Steve (Becky); her grandsons, Alex (Jessica), Michael (Hannah), and Luke; her great-grandson, Jack; her brothers-in-law, Russ (Ava) and Rod (Cindy); and her sister-in-law, Nancy.

Mom was preceded in death by her husband of 63 years, Olan; her parents; her brother; her sisters-in-law; her parents-in-law; and her nephew The family would like to express their deepest gratitude to everyone at Crescent Convalescent who cared for her during her final years. The kindness, patience, and love they showed her brought comfort to her and peace of mind to her family. We will always be grateful for the wonderful care and compassion they gave her.

A Celebration of Life for Mom and Dad will be held at a later date. Details will be shared with family and friends once arrangements have been finalized.