Laura Brown was a woman of strong faith, resilience, and an enduring, generous heart. Born on September 14, 1956, in Golden, Colorado, she was the second daughter of Wilma Irene Hinz Shephard and George Thomas Shephard. Growing up on the family ranch in Golden Gate Canyon (Golden, Colorado) and in southern Colorado (Center, Colorado), Laura lived a life filled with wonder, adventure, freedom, and most of all, love. Love of the beautiful outdoors, love of God, love given and received from her family, and a zest and love of life.

Laura was a true cowgirl at heart, learning from her father how to ride, care for animals, and care for the land. Laura and her sisters would spend hours riding bareback in the mountains. Fourth of July picnics and horse races were held at the White Ranch, which was run by close family friends. It is now an open space, White Ranch, up Golden Gate Canyon, outside of Golden, Colorado.

Laura’s childhood was marked by a significant health issue. She was diagnosed with Rheumatic Fever, which left her with a heart condition she battled the rest of her life.

She embraced life with creativity and independence, leaving home as a teenager to travel the country, capturing family memories by shooting family portraits. Eventually, she blazed her own path as a businesswoman, opening her own photo studio. She also worked in other industries, putting her culinary skills to use and applying her sales expertise with a window company in Denver, Colorado.

Laura’s greatest joy was her daughter, Kathryn Ann Marie Harer. As a single mother, she raised Kathryn with unwavering love, independence, and strength. Together, they shared a close bond as they moved across the country: from Colorado to California and ultimately to Harrison, Arkansas.

Throughout her life, Laura found deep comfort in her faith. She was a devoted member of Mary Mother of God Catholic Church in Harrison, Arkansas. She lived her beliefs by loving God and her neighbor, serving in her church in quiet but impactful ways. Her legacy is one of faith, love, and the profound joy of service and devotion to family.

Laura is survived by her daughter, Kathryn Ann Marie Harer, and sisters Cyndy McDonald and Carol Stoeber, as well as many nieces and nephews. Preceding her in death were her parents, Wilma (Shephard Bishop) Bates and George Shephard, brother Donald Nelson, brothers Donald and Ronald Shephard, and nephew Keith Stoeber.

A memorial service will be held in Harrison, Arkansas, in the spring of 2027. A memorial video of Laura’s life is available here: Laura Shephard Brown.

Laura’s Life History by Carol Shephard Stoeber

In the heart of Golden Gate Canyon, where the mountains cradle our childhood memories, three sisters—Cyndy, Laura, and I, Carol—grew up together, bound by love and adventure. Laura, the middle sister, was adventurous, always radiating warmth and laughter.

From our early days riding double on the old horse, navigating the winding trails as we drove cattle down the road, to those carefree moments on the tailgate with our legs dangling over the edge, we created a tapestry of memories woven with joy and sisterhood. Each ride, each adventure, was a testament to our unbreakable bond, filled with secrets shared and dreams nurtured.

As we blossomed into adults, our connection deepened. We faced life’s trials and celebrated milestones side by side, always leaning on one another for support and guidance. Laura had a unique way of lifting our spirits, and her laughter was a balm for every heartache. Together, we navigated the complexities of life, finding strength in each other’s presence.

Though Laura may no longer walk this earth, her spirit remains alive in our hearts. We miss her dearly—her laughter, her enthusiasm and the comfort of knowing she was always just a call away. The love we shared as sisters will continue to guide me, reminding me of the beautiful moments we created together.

Cyndy and I will carry Laura’s legacy forward, ensuring that her light never dims. She will always be a part of us, and her memory will forever echo in the love we share as sisters.