Laura Perry Rose passed away in her home on August 8, 2023 on the eve of her 81th birthday, surrounded by family and friends.

Laura was born August 9, 1942 in California and grew up in San Francisco.

Laura was a brilliant and dearly beloved teacher in Humboldt County for over 40 years; graduating magna cum laude from San Francisco State University, and receiving her master’s degree with distinction in education from the University of Oregon.

Laura taught most grades between K-12 and spent over 20 years at Pacific Union School in Arcata as well as being president of the teachers’ organization and art mentor for fellow teachers. Laura then taught teaching techniques at the Humboldt County Office of Education providing professional development opportunities for teachers. After earning her master’s degree, Laura spent ten years at Cal Poly Humboldt working with students in the teacher credentialing program. She was an accomplished author of teaching manuals, children’s folktales, and works of historical fiction.

During her retirement Laura became a prolific ceramicist, specializing in Raku, learning to throw pots from one of our area’s best potters, Peggy Loudon. She found inspiration in the oldest images that humankind ever drew, and brought them to life in her beautiful work which turned out to be stunning representations of the wonderful beasts of nature. Her pottery was shown in galleries in Ferndale and Trinidad.

Laura also enjoyed playing bridge and before the pandemic played regularly with the Sequoia Bridge Club as well as a women’s bridge group at Baywood Country Club in Arcata.

Laura was an active member of her many communities, most proudly as a longtime parishioner and vestry member at Christ Episcopal Church serving on many parish committees, including the Search Committee to call a new rector. Laura found Christ Church more than thirty-five years ago, when her son David was three-years old. Laura and David were soon in the choirs and continued singing joyfully. Laura continued to sing through her illness up until June of this year. Because of her love of music which she instilled in her son David, he now serves as choir director at Christ Church. For a number of years, Laura played guitar and headed up a sacred song sing-along for the children. She organized a Taizé service in the chapel.

Laura brought laughter, music and her unforgettable smile wherever she went.

Laura is survived by her son, David B. Powell and wife Alexandra Blouin; sisters Christine and Katharine and her brother Steve; as well as an extended family of many wonderful nieces.

The family wishes to thank her amazing caretakers, Hospice of Humboldt and the many friends who all helped so much with Laura’s care near the end. More than words can express.

Friends and acquaintances are invited to a memorial service and celebration of life to be held Saturday, November 11, 2023 at 11 a.m. at Christ Episcopal Church, 625 15th Street, Eureka. Final arrangements were entrusted to Humboldt Cremation and Funeral Services.

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