Laura Townsend

Laura Townsend, 86, of Auburn, passed away Saturday, Feb. 18, 2017 at St. John’s Hospital.

She was born January 24, 1931 in Springfield, the daughter of Harry and Jane Pignon Bertoux. 

She married Elmer Townsend on Oct. 7, 1950 and he preceded her in death on Jan. 30, 2016.  She was also preceded in death by one sister, Jane Mitchell and one brother, Henry Bertoux.

Laura was devoted to her family and community.  She had a long career as a pre-school teacher in Auburn and was much beloved by the children she taught.  She volunteered for many years as a catechism teacher for St. Benedict’s Church and, along with her husband, devoted years as a volunteer EMT for the Auburn Ambulance.  She loved to cook and bake and provided food and assistance at her parish’s funeral dinners as well as for friends and family members experiencing difficult times.  She enjoyed traveling and saw most of the country with her family.  Along with Elmer, who was her best friend and fellow adventurer in life, she would later visit many places around the world.  

Laura is survived by her two sons, Greg (Lori) Townsend of Springfield and Rodney Townsend of Auburn; one daughter, Jeanne (Tom) Handy of Springfield; brother-in-law Don Townsend of Huntington Beach, CA; and several nieces and nephews. 

Visitation will be from 10:30am till time of services at 12 noon, Wednesday, Feb. 22, 2017 at Bramley Funeral Home, Auburn with Deacon Denny Baker officiating.  Burial will be in Camp Butler National Cemetery, Springfield.

Memorials can be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital and the Animal Protective League.