Sarah Elizabeth Laughter

Sarah Elizabeth Laughter went "Home" to be with the Lord Sunday, November 27, 2011. She was 90 years old, born on March 25, 1921 in London, Arkansas. She was the first child of Erwin Jess and Pearl Martin. Elizabeth Martin graduated from Russellville High School and went on to Arkansas Polytechnic College (Arkansas Tech), where she was the Drum Majorette for the Tech Marching Band. There she met and married the school's flight instructor, Clarence "Beech" Laughter. Their marriage lasted for 54 years until his death in 2003. Elizabeth or "Liz" as she preferred to be called participated in garden clubs in Russellville, Monticello and North Little Rock. She was a member of the Methodist Church for more than 75 years. She was recognized for her work in the Morton-Wayland Women's Circle and she was an active member of the Ambassador and Triune classes. Liz Laughter played an integral role in forming the Quilting Club at Indian Hills First United Methodist Church, where she used her talents as a seamstress to help support the church bazaars. Sewing was one of her favorite pastimes, and sewing for her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren gave her much pleasure. Liz also worked as an election official to help broaden her views of the political process. Because of failing health, she moved to Beebe in 2007. There she joined the Dorcas class at First Baptist Church, where she met many new friends. Her life became much slower and she took peace in just being with family and loved ones. Surviving are two daughters: Rosemary Laughter Russell of North Little Rock and Nancy Laughter Barnes and her husband John of Beebe. "Bobba" will be missed by her grandchildren: Shan Russell (Sarah) of Fayetteville, Jarrod Russell (Heather) and Rory Russell (Marika) of Sherwood, Jessica Barnes of Little Rock and Jennifer Barnes Curtis (Troy) of Beebe. Six great-grandchildren, Lindsey, Alec, Riley, Evan, Max, Nate and Jude. "Sis" as she affectionately was called by her only surviving brother, Bob Martin (Carol), resides in North Little Rock. Also among the survivors are nieces, cousins and a host of close friends, including Charles and Freddie Diehl, the best neighbors anyone could ask for. A very special thanks to the CNAs, nurses, and staff of Beebe Retirement Center, who lovingly cared for Mrs. Laughter before her death. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the First Untied Methodist Church in Indian Hills. Funeral services will be held 10 a.m., Thursday in the North Little Rock Funeral Home Chapel. A committal service will be held 2 p.m., at Oakland Cemetery in Russellville. The family will receive friends from 6 to 8 p.m., Wednesday at the funeral home, 1921 Main St., 758-1170. Online obituary and guest registry at www.nlrfh.com.