Laura Beth

Laura Beth, 92, New Salem, passed away on December 19, 2017 at Elm Crest Manor, New Salem.

A memorial service will be held at 10:30 am on Saturday, December 23, 2017 at the New Salem City Auditorium. The family will greet friends one hour prior to the service at the Auditorium.

Laura was born November 5, 1925, in Rhame, ND to Leslie and Iva (Barton) Smith.  Early in life, she made her choice to serve God.  She attended country school and graduated from Rhame High School.  Laura went on to attend Dakota Business College in Fargo and worked in Fargo for some time.  On May 28, 1949, she married Elmer Beth in Baker, MT.  They made their home on a farm south of Judson where they lived until 1989, when they moved to New Salem.  Laura was a deeply-caring, kind-hearted, and generous woman who took care of multiple family members and friends.  She and Elmer were faithful in opening their home and hearts to God's servants, friends, and many foster children over the years.  Laura experienced true joy in seeing the life of Jesus lived out in others.  She enjoyed gardening, farm life, and their travels to Oregon, Arizona, and Hawaii.  Elmer passed away on March 16, 2000.  In 2011, Laura entered Elm Crest Manor in New Salem, where she received excellent and compassionate care.

Blessed to have shared in her life are her three children, Robert (Marcia) Beth, New Salem; Bev (Tan) Davis, Pollock, SD, and Elise (Todd) Peterson, New Salem; 10 grandchildren; 8 great grandchildren; one brother, Bart (Marion) Smith, Glendale, AZ; and two sisters, Faye Whitley, New Salem and Hilla Whitley, NC.

Laura was preceded in death by her parents; her husband Elmer; an infant daughter; three brothers; and two sisters. She will be missed by all who knew and loved her.