Laurie Bochert Emmons McBride

Laurie Bochert Emmons McBride, 65, formerly of St. Clair, Missouri, passed away Saturday, Sept. 28, 2024, in Springfield, Missouri.

Laurie was born Nov. 26, 1958, to Lawrence (Larry) and Patricia (Pat) Bochert. She was a 1977 graduate of St. Clair High School. She was married to Robert (Bob) Emmons on Nov. 19, 1977, and together they welcomed one daughter, Courtney Emmons. After Bob's death, Laurie was united in marriage to Gene McBride on May 20, 2000.

Laurie was a proud Christian and a member of Holy Trinity Lutheran Church in St. Clair for many years before moving away. She was a Sunday school teacher and a youth group leader. Faith was important to Laurie, and she often encouraged others to follow Jesus. Armed with a sharp, and sometimes wicked, sense of humor, Laurie championed the underdog and always encouraged people to follow their passions and dreams.

Laurie worked in the banking and trucking industries for most of her life, later becoming a business owner when she and Gene opened a flower shop. She was an avid traveler and constant learner, always exploring new ideas, places, and food. Laurie's biggest pride was her family, especially her grandchildren, who affectionately called her ?Nana. An accomplished chef in her own right, one of her favorite activities was finding new and interesting recipes with her grandchildren and cooking with them. She also enjoyed sharing her love of music and often played the classics while she cooked. These are some of her grandchildren's favorite memories of their beloved Nana. She spent her retirement traveling and meeting new people and spending time with her family and friends.

A beloved wife, mother, grandmother, mother-in-law, sister-in-law, cousin, aunt, and friend, she will be missed by many, and her memory will be cherished forever.

Laurie is preceded in death by both of her parents; her first husband, Bob; and several close family members.

She is survived by her husband, Gene McBride, of Springfield, Missouri; her daughter, Courtney Emmons Buchholz (Jason), of Springfield, Missouri; stepson, Brian McBride (Emily), of Salem, Missouri; five grandchildren, Brooklyn, Joselyn, Ethan, Alicia, and Aiden; her aunt, Lola Bochert, of St. Clair, Missouri; special cousins, John McGlenn (Deb), of St. Clair, Missouri, and Mary Pursley (Ronnie), of Stanton, Missouri; in-laws, John Lee and Sue Emmons, of St. Clair, Missouri; nieces, nephews, cousins, several close family members and many, MANY friends.

Laurie did not wish to have a large, formal funeral. A small, intimate gathering to inter her ashes will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 12, at Crestview Memorial Park, St. Clair. All are welcome, but capacity will be limited.

In lieu of flowers or cards, if anyone wishes to make a donation in Laurie's name, the family request those be made to Tunnel to Towers Foundation. This was an important organization to Laurie and helps those who have served our country.

Arrangments are in care of Russell Colonial Funeral Home, St. Clair.