Laura Taylor

    Laura Mae Taylor, 69, passed away peacefully on January 7, 2025, surrounded by her loving family. She succumbed to complications from pneumonia.
    Born on April 4, 1955, at the naval station in Norfolk, Virginia, Laura was the cherished daughter of Obie Dean Taylor and Joan “Jodie” Dowdy.
    In 1973, Laura married Bruno Nathan Tomaino, and together they welcomed four children: Chad, Bruno, Crystal, and Dustin. Their marriage lasted 14 years before they parted ways.
    In 1989, Laura married the love of her life, Benito Van, and that same year, they celebrated the birth of their son, Jordan. Laura and Benito were married for 18 years before divorcing, but they maintained a close and enduring relationship until her passing.
    Laura had an impeccable sense of style, always stepping out with her hair perfectly styled and makeup flawlessly done. Known for constantly reinventing her look, she surprised everyone with her ever-changing hairstyles and colors. A loyal QVC and HSN shopper, she never missed an opportunity to indulge her love of fashion and accessories.
    In her younger days, Laura loved spending time at the lake and was a skilled slalom skier. A proud cheerleader in high school, she often reminisced about those vibrant years. Laura’s strength was unmatched—she delivered four of her five children at home, naturally, without modern medicine.
    Above all, Laura was a devoted mother who deeply loved her children. When her son Chad became paralyzed, she took on the role of his caregiver with unwavering dedication, remaining by his side until his passing.
    Laura is survived by her children: Bruno Tomaino, Crystal Alderson, and Dusty (Ashley) Tomaino; her siblings: Terry Taylor, Wade (Michelle) Taylor, and Tobie Taylor; her nephews: Devin and Braiden Taylor; as well as her many grandchildren and two great-granddaughters.
    She was preceded in death by her sons, Chad Tomaino and Jordan Van; her parents, Obie and Joan Taylor; her grandparents, Jy and Ruth Dowdy; and her beloved Uncle Louis and Aunt Gurdy DeMos.
    Laura will be remembered for her vibrant spirit, resilience, and unwavering love for her family.
    A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, January 18, 2025 at 5:00 PM at the Grace Events Center, 1024 West Highway 40, Roosevelt.  Food will be served.