Laura Belle Garcia

Laura was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, and all her siblings: Catherine Mae (Wells) Johnson, Oliver Perry Wells, Mabel Irene (Wells) O’Neill, John Fletcher Wells, Martha Opal (Wells) Sorrell, Willa Lee (Wells) Peaden; and a daughter, Freda Lynn Garcia.

She is survived by four children: Sharon (Steve) Bailey, Lita (Virgil) Arnold, Kenneth (Eugena) Garcia, and Clinton (Kimberly) Garcia; seven grandchildren: Matthew Bailey, Caryl Bailey, Greg Arnold, Ken (Jennifer) Garcia, Sarah (Chase) Grubb, Andrew Garcia, and Christopher (Kexin) Garcia; and six great-grandchildren: Logan Derbyshire, Chloe Garcia, Allison Garcia, Ryleigh Garcia, Gabriella Grubb, and Lucas Grubb; and many nieces and nephews. She is also survived by her sister-in-law Madeline Bell.

Laura met Alfred Garcia while working at her sister Mae’s grocery store in July 1951. She said she knew he was the one she wanted to marry, and they married just a few months later on October 31. Their marriage was an inspiration of love and commitment to family.

Laura was active in the community throughout her life. She helped establish and became the first president of the Carlisle Educational Recognition Association, an organization that is still active today. She was a Girl Scout Leader, a Cub Scout Den mother, a 4-H leader and a band booster for many years.

As empty nesters, Fred and Laura had time for themselves. They began with square dancing, but when they saw a demonstration of clog dancing, they were hooked, leading them to establish the Ohio Cardinal Cloggers. Their teams danced for over 25 years at the Ohio State Fair, county fairs, local festivals, and competitions.

In addition to clog dancing, Laura was a lifelong bowler, avid racquetball player, and golfer. She loved gardening both vegetables and flowers. She was passionate about her daylilies, often hybridizing the most beautiful daylilies to create new types.

One definition of “Matriarch” is “a highly respected woman who is also a mother.” Laura was that and so much more. Her life is an inspiration to all who knew her.

A Memorial Service will be 3pm Friday January 5, 2024 at Anderson Funeral Home 1357 E 2nd St Franklin, OH 45005. Visitation will be Friday from 1pm to 3pm.