Kind Words
Stories
We Cherish

There truly was no better person than Laura. The best friend, mother, spouse, daughter, sister… she truly was the entire package of best friend, dedicated to her family, ambitious, intelligent beautiful and tenacious. Laura was truly one of the most thoughtful and special friends in my life. You could always count on her to pick up the phone to just check in and say hi, or surprise you with a thoughtful card in the mail. She is missed so deeply - there really aren’t words. Sending so much love to you and everyone who was fortunate enough to know and love Laura.

- Audrey Ganey

I first met Laura when I was in labor. Our mutual friend came over to grab my other kids and Laura was with her at the time. A memorable first impression for her, I'm sure. A while later during school pick up, I parked next to her Jolene jeep and immediately thought to myself, "I want to be friends with whoever drives this car". Jolene is arguably one of the best songs ever. Moments later, Laura approached her car and after chatting for a bit and improving upon my first impression and connecting over our love of Dolly Parton, I knew we'd be fast friends. She demonstrated the kindest and most thoughtfulness of friendships: the cheerleader for her friends' aspirations, the intentional listener and deep connector, and the person who shows up unconditionally for the people in her life. Mostly, I am grateful for the opportunity to witness the way Laura loved and connected as a mother.

- Cara Shannon

Laura was my closest friend at Whittier law school! During that first year we sat together, studied together, and survived 1L together. You know when you are just meant to be friends with someone? That was Larua and I when we met. I remember it was orientation and we saw each other, and it was pretty much instantaneous! Like...yep...I'm meant to be friends with that person. We were pretty much inseparable that first year until I transferred law schools and we of course stayed friends after that. I remember they would sometimes call us Batman and Robin because we were a duo. Of course, Laura was Batman since she had the sparkly frontman personality and the beautiful smile to go with it. This picture was taken at a birthday lunch with just me, Laura, and my mom (circa 2005). The other gentleman was our fun funny waiter. Laura made such a lasting impact on my family (who lived in the area) that my mom included this picture in a collage that still hangs on their wall to this day! I will miss my 1L sidekick, partner-in-crime, and beloved friend dearly.

- Stephanie Dowds

Laura’s friendship and love was priceless. I don’t know quite how to say all I’d like to say. She was great and I’ll miss her a lot. And I’ll always smile when I think of our running 17 year joke about going to work at the DMV together. I’m here for any of the Dole’s and Ramsey’s whenever you need. Larams, your place is always in my heart.

- Roxanna Alavi

I met Laura when I just arrived in the US as an au pair for Lia's family. Laura was always so kind to me. She was a beautiful soul and an amazing person. She will be missed so much. Prayers and love to the family.

- Mariana Bendana

We went to the Inspire school fundraiser and had a great time. I believe it was 80s theme, hence her outfit. Her laugh, her spirit, and her care for everyone will sorely be missed!

- Alisa Wilson

A few years ago I was really sick and in the hospital getting chemo. It can be weird around sick people – sometimes people don’t know the right way to be there, which is understandable. Laura was not one of those people, though. Laura showed up to my room at St. Joe’s on a Friday afternoon with a silver shaker full of mocktails and snacks, ready to party. She was such a bright spot during a really scary time. Absolutely unafraid and cheerful. I don’t think I know anyone else who is so bright, fun, and full of love.

— Erin Levy

Laura’s spirit is bright and magnetic. I remember the first time I ever saw her. I was a baby lawyer in court waiting for my case to be called. As I watched who I later learned was Laura make the most persuasive presentation of her case, I had to tell her how awesome she was. I ran into her at the parking garage, and she kindly helped me get my first family law job with the Whiting firm. Laura was a force of nature, and she still shines her light as brightly as ever today.

— Ania Bednarczyk

Laura Ramsey was an extraordinary person. I met her when I needed a lawyer. I’m a lawyer too, so I asked my lawyer friends who they recommended. Laura is the best of the best, and everybody knew it. She threw me a lifeline when I needed it, and my life would not be what it is now without her. Eventually, we became true friends. Our conversations went from legal strategy in my own personal case, to discussing everything from career development, parenting, and fashion choices. She was an extraordinary woman, and I am so grateful that our life journeys brought us together.

— Pamela Grewal