Laura Casey

Laura Casey, 48, of San Carlos passed away on Saturday, January 28, 2012. She was born in San Carlos on August 19, 1963 to Johnny Casey, Sr. and Dorothy Casey. Laura attended St. Charles Catholic School until she reached the fourth grade. From the fourth grade through the eighth grade she attended Rice elementary school. As a high school freshman she attended Sherman Indian High School. She then transferred to Globe high school and graduated from there in 1983. From there she attended Mesa Community College. As a teenager Laura got her first job at the old San Carlos Cafe. She then worked at San Carlos Utility Authority for many years. She also worked at the San Carlos Hospital and at Copper Mountain Inn as a nurse assistant. Through a traditional sunrise dance ceremony Laura became a God-mother and gained a God-daughter; Amber Thompson. On April 24, 2011 Laura became a member of Freedom Holiness Church. Laura enjoyed traveling, reading romance books, helping others and being with family and friends. One of Laura's greatest joys was when she made a baby blanked for one of her grandsons. She was so proud of that blanket because she made it all by hand. What she loved the most was being a mother and grandmother. She devoted her time to her grandkids. Laura was a loving, caring and helpful person. She was a person who cared for everyone around her. She was also a strong lady who stood up for what she believed in. She will be greatly missed by many. Laura is preceded in death by her parents; her son Donovan Casey; brothers, Bernard Gates, Sr. and Johnny Casey, Jr.; and a nephew, Dan Benally. She is survived by her children, Kendrick Russell, Sr., Lenora Russell, Celeste Gates, Tiffany Gates, Jewel Gates, Gibson Dia III, and Adreanna Gates; her siblings, Joseph Gates, Samuel King, Veronica Eschief, Gibson Dia, Jr. and many grandchildren.