Edna Mary Laurie
August 4, 1926 - April 18, 2008
Obituary
EDNA MARY nee CROSS LAURIE
Mary died peacefully in her sleep Friday morning, April 18. She was born August 4, 1926 in Dillon, Montana, the second child of John Perry Cross and Claire Elizabeth nee Dimico.
Mary was a spirited young woman. Shortly after World War II began in 1941, this sixteen year old, red-haired beauty, left her home in Harrison, Idaho and moved to Spokane, Washington to learn railroad telegraphy, an opportunity opened by the men going to war. She finished high school at Lewis and Clark, qualified as a telegrapher, the youngest ever, and ran railroad communications from various stations around the Northwest through the war and into the later forties. She had one son, Dean Reed, who died before her. She made successful careers in accounting and real estate.
Mary was a gardener, growing great tomatoes every year to remind us what they used to taste like. She grew lots of flowers and was an expert at both fresh and dry arrangements.
Mary is survived by her grandson Dan Reed, his wife Amy and their children, Mary’s great grandchildren in whom she found great joy. She is also survived by her siblings; Kenneth Cross, Donna Jean Cross and Ann Cross of Spokane, James Cross Sharon, Prosser, WA, Frank Cross Maxine, Aberdeen, WA, Clarence Cross, Seattle and many nieces and nephews around the Northwest.
Services will be private and burial at the family plot in Harrison, Idaho. In lieu of flowers contributions may be made to a charity of choice.
Aunt Mary, I can’t find words to express my sadness over your passing. I can remember the times when you would come to Spokane to visit. You always could ease the load of worries I had. I enjoyed the talks and visits we shared. I will miss those times forever.
Love your nephew Kenny