Three months ago I wrote an obituary for my mother. It was printed and read in local papers. We held a service in April where many well wishers offered their heartfelt condolences and to celebrate her life. As I prepare to navigate the rest of my life without her in it, I’ve come to this emotional milestone: the first Mother’s Day after her passing. I’ve decided I didn’t want this particular thing to disappear into the ether so I’m posting it here to save it for myself.

LAURIE ANNE MCLELLAN

Laurie McLellan, 63, a long time resident of Manhattan Beach, passed away on February 16th in Los Angeles after a very courageous and private fight with cancer.

Laurie was born on August 19th, 1954 in Chicago. She went to school at San Diego State University where she met her husband Don McLellan, who survives her. They were married on March 11th, 1977 in Las Vegas and remained madly in love for 40 years. Laurie is also survived by her loving sons Donald (Krista), Matthew (Lily), Andrew, and Gregory as well as her granddaughter Eleanor. She was a dedicated mother and wife, thoroughly involved in her sons’ activities as they grew, including marching band at Mira Costa High School, Cub Scouts, and Boy Scouts. All four of her sons are Eagle Scouts.

Laurie spent over 25 years instructing at Grand View Elementary School in Manhattan Beach. She was passionate about her arts and crafts hobbies. She was a nationally known needlepointer and cross stitcher, and she also enjoyed knitting, quilting, sewing, and doll making. Laurie was a prominent member of many local chapters of The Embroiderers’ Guild of America and the American Needlepoint Guild. Laurie was known and cherished for her baking and cooking skills.