Laura Draney died September 29, 2005 at Saddleback Memorial Medical Center, Laguna Hills, California of congestive heart failure. She was staying with her son in Mission Viejo California at the time.
Laura was born March 2, 1914 to Brigham Ozro Gardner and Emma Eunice Michaelson in Afton. she was the 11th child of 12 children.
Well known for her musical talent, she was a pianist for her singing brothers and accompanied many hundreds of other performers throughout the Valley. She was a self taught pianist from age eight when she was the accompanist for primary.
An active member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints all her life, she was a Sunday School chorister and organist, MIA music director and organist and activity counselor, primary chorister, Sunday school teacher, ward organist and MIA president. in 1957 she became the stake organist for Star Valley and held that position for about 45 years.
Laura married Elno F. Draney September 16, 1931 in the Salt Lake Temple. Before moving to Afton, they lived in Freedom for 20 years.They were the parents of four sons.
Laura loved to grow flowers, kept a large raspberry patch, and immaculate yard. as a frugal and exceptional homemaker, she kept her home clean and beautiful. More than a hundred embroidered pillowcases and table cloths with crocheted borders were left for her posterity and many friends to enjoy.
Laura is preceded in death by her eternal companion, Elno; son Walden; grandson David; her parents, and brothers and sisters.
Survivors include three sons, Nolan G.; Mission Viejo California Terryl E., Preston, Idaho; Randall G.; Gilbert, Arziona; 12 grandchildren and 22 great-grandchildren.
Funeral services for Laura G. Draney will be held Saturday, Oct 8, 2005 at noon in the Afton LDS Tabernacle.
A viewing will he held Friday, Oct 7, 2005 from 7-9 p,m. at the Schwab Mortuary in Afton and from 10-11:45 a.m. at the church prior to the service.

Draney, Laura G (1) (b 8 Oct 2005)Star Valley Independent