Laura Belle Elliott Stilwell Peterson, 93, of Lenexa KS went home to be with her Lord and Savior on September 22, 2020, surrounded by her loved ones.
Laura was born on August 10, 1927 to Horace Winfield Elliott and Helena Anna Louise Elliott (Wilkie) Laura grew up on a farm, and her children and grandchildren have fond memories of her telling elaborate stories during the Great Depression. Laura attended Park College in Park City MO. She became a physical education teacher at Ursuline Academy in Paola KS to junior high and high school aged girls. During her time at Ursuline Academy, she also took private oil painting lessons. She became an incredibly talented artist, creating oil paintings until her last days. Her artwork will be forever treasured by her friends and family
Laura married Glenn Stilwell and moved to Manhattan, KS and later had her two beautiful daughters. Debra and Roxanne. Laura painted photographs of soldiers stationed at Fort Riley and volunteered at Grace Baptist church with singing and specials with the choir. She was president of Christian Women’s club and assisted with other various student ministries in and around the city. Glenn preceded her in death in 1979. Laura later married Virgil Peterson and moved to Salina, KS. He preceded her in death in 2010. She then moved to Lakeview Village and lived out the rest of her days enjoying constant activities and sweet time with treasured friends and family.
Laura leaves her oldest daughter Debra (Bryan) Read, and children Casey (Cathy), Cody (Rebecca), Laura Catherine Read, Carrie (Ryan) Spray with children Grayson and Ellie Spray. Daughter Roxie (Doug) Brensing, and children Helane (Ben) Downey with daughters Rylee & Emma, Brandon (Tess) with son Hudson, Tricia (Jeremy) Holliday with children Dean, Adalynn and Jeremiah. Laura also leaves behind her 2 sisters Margaret Rose (Peter) Haggart with Jane (Steve) Somers and family, Rob (Amy) and family , Deanna (Doug) Clemence, Mitch (preceded her in death) Douglas (Sacha) and family, Lance and son Daylen, Step-son Greg (Leslie) Peterson and son Cayden.
Wherever Laura was, there was immense joy present. She always attributed this contagious joy to her love for the Lord. Laura was creative, strong, adventurous, and had a special fire about her. She loved her family and friends well, and above all else had an unwavering devotion and love for the Lord. Her legacy will live on in the hearts and minds of all who knew her.
The family asks that in lieu of flowers, memorial gifts be directed to Lenexa Baptist Church Missions Ministry, due to Laura’s love of telling others about Jesus.