of West Memphis, AR
June 25, 1955 - March 9, 2026
Laura Ellen Partlow Foster, departed earthly life to meet her Savior on Monday, March 9, 2026.
Born on June 25, 1955 in Fort Monmouth, New jersey. Laura was the daughter of Delia and Judge Graham Partlow. She lived a gracious, full life rooted in love, service and unwavering faith. She touched countless lives with her gentle spirit and her ability to make everyone fell valued.
Laura graduated from Blytheville High School, class of 1973. After high school she attended and graduated from Arkansas State University, then got her masters from the University of Mississippi and graduated with from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock with her Law degree.
Laura reconnected with the love of her life John Foster and they were married in 2002.
Laura served as the Regent of Crittenden County Chapter of DAR. United Daughters of the Confederacy. Was on the Board of Directors at Steudlein Learning Center. Longtime member of First United Methodist Church of West Memphis where she worshipped and served since 2002 in administrative, SPRC, nominations, staff parish and trustees.
After passing the bar Laura was a deputy prosecuting attorney as well as a public defender in Little Rock. She was a deputy prosecuting attorney in Poinsett County. Laura was in private practice in Marion and was state of Arkansas DFA/OCSE Attorney Specialist for 17 years.
She also served on the Arkansas Supreme Court Committee on Professional Conduct.
Laura is survived by her husband John Taylor Foster, stepson Taylor Foster. Her siblings Dr. Charlie Partlow (Ruth), Peggy Partlow Cameron (Jack) and Elizabeth Partlow Grimes. She is also survived by her nieces and nephews and her Aunt Lib Shippen and Pat Williams and her cousins. As well as her sister in law Karen Foster.
There will be a Visitation held at the First United Methodist Church of West Memphis, Arkansas on March 28, 2026 at 10:00am with a Memorial service to follow at 11:00am.
In lieu of flowers the family requests memorial contributions be made to the following:
Steudliein Learning Center
207 Balfour Road
West Memphis, AR 72301
West Memphis Animal Shelter
500 South Loop Road
West Memphis, AR 72301
First United Methodist Church
215 N. Missouri Street
West Memphis, AR 72301
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53 Condolence(s)
Karen Anderson
Thursday, March 19, 2026
I worked closely with Laura for 17 years. She taught me so much about how the law operates and the how the justice system is supposed to work. We became friends outside of our business relationship and she was so much fun.
She hated work emails so this is like being able to send just one more to her :). Farewell my friend, you are greatly missed.
Rachael R Vaughn
Wednesday, March 18, 2026
Laura was such a bright light to everyone she knew. She was generous, supportive, and kind. I miss her so very much.
Patsy Smith
Tuesday, March 17, 2026
Our hearts ache for and with each one of you as we hold you all close in our prayers. Laura's dedication to the care of her parents and love for John and her family is a forever inspiration. How thankful we are for Laura's light in our lives!!!
Julie and Greg Hart
Monday, March 16, 2026
John- we are so sorry for your loss. We have too many great memories with you guys and Laura always was the shining light. She will be missed greatly and remembered fondly. You, your family and friends are in our thoughts and prayers. Love and miss you both. Juls and Greg
donna kane
Monday, March 16, 2026
Haven't seen Laura in years but always enjoyed working with her or just talking. Wonderful lady. Prayers for peace for her family and friends
Jack Cameron
Monday, March 16, 2026
I am broken hearted with the loss of my sister of over 50 years. I pray for John as he adjusts to life without her. She was always the strong one and kept the family together following her parents passing. She will be missed by so many that knew and loved her, especially me.
Gwendolyn Freeman
Monday, March 16, 2026
My Dear Friend and Coworker. My heart was hurt and saddened by your transition. You always gave the best hugs and kisses. I will miss seeing you. It was a joy working with you at the State of Arkansas. I send my prayers and condolences to John and the rest of the family. God loves you best. It was a blessing to have known and loved you!!!🕊️🕊️🕊️
Marilyn Sickel
Sunday, March 15, 2026
I am feeling empty with the loss of my friend Laura. We served together in many capacities within DAR. Our birthdays are only two days apart and we thought that was special, between us. She was always there for Arkansas DAR members. When asked to serve on the State DAR Board, she had no hesitation stepping up to the challenge. You will truly be missed, my friend. My sincere condolences to her family.
Julie and Greg Hart
Sunday, March 15, 2026
John- we are so sorry for your loss. We have too many great memories with you guys and Laura always was the shining light. She will be missed greatly and remembered fondly. You, your family and friends are in our thoughts and prayers. Love and miss you both. Juls and Greg
John Ogles
Saturday, March 14, 2026
RIP Sweet Laura. You were such a positive bright light in this world. I talked to your law partner to confirm because I didn't believe it.
Christopher Deen
Saturday, March 14, 2026
I am so very sorry to hear this. My condolences go out to John and all of you. May your memories of her in the good times comfort you.
Candy Warren
Saturday, March 14, 2026
While growing up in Blytheville, the Partlows family I came to know and enjoyed so much laughter and fun with Peggy, Laurie, Laura and Charlie. Laurie was an amazing friend. She will be missed. Deep sympathies to all families.
Mike Brewer
Saturday, March 14, 2026
I was sure hear you sorry to hear about Laura passing. Praying for the family. (Jn. 3:16)
''For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.''
Peggy Collier Nichols
Saturday, March 14, 2026
I grew up and graduated high school with Laurie. Such a sweet and intelligent soul! The world is a better place because of her. Prayers for John and all her family and friends. She will be missed.
G Gee
Saturday, March 14, 2026
Sitting Shiva Job 2:13🕊'🌿
Dennis Sullivan
Saturday, March 14, 2026
With deepest condolences and heartfelt prayers for the entire family !
Kimberly Dean-Files
Saturday, March 14, 2026
Laurie was very special to the Dean family. Our thoughts and prayers are with John, Peggy, Charlie and Elizabeth.
LuAnn Tomlinson Mitchell
Friday, March 13, 2026
Laurie was a wonderful friend and classmate. She was always there for everyone. My prayers are with John and her family. She will be missed by all that knew her. 🙏🏼
Lisa Turley
Friday, March 13, 2026
Laurie was always kind to me and she will be missed. Sending much love to all.
Cindy Patton
Friday, March 13, 2026
John, I am do sorry to hear of the passing of Laura. She was a wonderful person full of love and grace. My prayers are with you and you family.
Tim Johnson
Friday, March 13, 2026
I vividly remember Laurie from Blytheville. She had such a sparkling smile and sweet disposition.
Condolences to her family and friends. A bright light gone too soon.
Tim and Eva Eagen
Friday, March 13, 2026
We are thinking about you John. Tim
Patricia H Rainey
Friday, March 13, 2026
Sending prayers of comfort and deepest sympathy to the Foster and Partlow families. Laura was gracious and kind, always.
Greg Starnes
Friday, March 13, 2026
Those of us that grew up in Blytheville and had the privilege of knowing ''Laurie'' , we have lost a good friend and sister. My condolences to John, Peggy,Charlie, and Elizabeth. I'll always remember the last time I saw her was when she came to my mother's funeral in 2011. God bless her.
John Ogles
Thursday, March 12, 2026
RIP Sweet Laura. You were such a positive bright light in this world. I talked to your law partner to confirm because I didn't believe it.
Sharron Kelley Littlejohn
Thursday, March 12, 2026
I had the privilege of working with Laura and sharing her friendship for several years. She will be missed by so many who loved her. My prayers to John and her siblings, may God give you peace as only He can.
Sharron Kelley Littlejohn
Sarah Day Smith
Thursday, March 12, 2026
Laurie and her family were childhood friends. She was a lovely, kind person. It made my heart hurt to hear about her passing. Prayers to ease your grief and for peaceful, happy memories. I know she will be missed.
Larry and Brenda Giffin
Thursday, March 12, 2026
John, so sad to learn of Laura's passing. Our community has last a wonderful warrior and a fine Christian woman. Laura improved all circumstances she encountered and each life she touched. She will be missed.
Patrice Miles
Thursday, March 12, 2026
We went to school together in Blytheville. Her accomplishments were many but her legacy of good deeds will live on forever. Prayers for her family and all who loved and admired her. She will be missed.
Geoff Nixon
Thursday, March 12, 2026
Hay John, we are all praying for you. God Bless.
David Goodson
Wednesday, March 11, 2026
I am so sorry to hear Laura is no longer with us!
She had a great sense of humor, and was extremely adept at dropping a one liner or making a joke at just the right time.
I always enjoyed having her appear before me in Court. Laura knew the facts, understood the Law, and came well prepared. She had the ability to be a fierce advocate for her side of the case, but to see and understand the ''human factor'' regarding the other side.
Because of her efforts and work ethic, there are literally thousands of individuals who know who their parents are due to her ''just doing her job.''
Laura was obviously a woman of deep faith who loved her family, her church and her friends.
May God wrap his loving arms around her family and friends as we all celebrate her life while mourning her passing.
Laura-🎶 Go Rest High Upon That Mountain! 🎶
Shawn Elliott
Wednesday, March 11, 2026
Your family are in our thoughts and prayers♥️
Jack Cameron
Wednesday, March 11, 2026
I am broken hearted with the loss of my sister of over 50 years. I pray for John as he adjusts to life without her. She was always the strong one and kept the family together following her parents passing. She will be missed by so many that knew and loved her, especially me.
Jane Hawley
Wednesday, March 11, 2026
John,
Tom and I are heartbroken to learn of Laura's passing. Laura was a blessing to many! We are praying for you and the family that your hearts will be comforted with the many happy and fun memories of Laura. Sending a big hug to you.
Jane & Tom
Robby Gardner
Wednesday, March 11, 2026
Laurie, the world lost a faithful servant the day you left this world. We will deeply miss you. Much love & prayers for your family! Your childhood friend, Robby Gardner
Aaron and Karen White
Wednesday, March 11, 2026
Mrs. Kaye said it best… what a way to begin our week. A big hug and that sweet smile and quick visit from Laura on Sunday mornings left you feeling loved! She will be missed and we are so sorry for your loss. Heaven gained an angel🙏🏻
Pam Young
Wednesday, March 11, 2026
Condolences to the family of Laura. She was a sweet lady
Gina Bailey
Wednesday, March 11, 2026
I am so sorry for your loss. I was in DAR with Laura. She was a wonderful person and I admired her so much.
Mike and Ruby McFatland
Wednesday, March 11, 2026
We are so sorry for your loss. Laura was always a kind, loving presence wherever she went.
May God comfort you and all those who loved her.
Buddy & Jan Flowers
Wednesday, March 11, 2026
John, I was so sad to hear about Laura. I remember when we were neighbors, and you first started dating Laura. It was so obvious that she made you very happy. You both seemed so right for each other. She was such a beautiful, kind person. I'm praying for you.
Kaye and Lynn Stanfield
Wednesday, March 11, 2026
We are so sorry John. Laura was one of our favorite people to see on Sunday morning.. Her bright smile and hugs were the way to start your day.. God has a precious angel. 🙏
Clay Partridge
Wednesday, March 11, 2026
John, so sorry for your loss. Always enjoyed my visits and interactions with Laura.
Leeann Mobley
Tuesday, March 10, 2026
I loved Laura! I met her at a state DAR meeting! We shared a love of country and politics. She was my DAR sister. I can't imagine how big the loss is for her siblings and husband. Praying for you all!!!
Freda Paxton
Tuesday, March 10, 2026
So sorry for your loss, John. Laura was a special lady and will greatly missed. May God comfort you and give you the peace and strength needed in the coming days.
Jo Ann Taylor Cooper
Tuesday, March 10, 2026
So sorry for this loss for DAR, a wonderful member for years.
Mike and Ruby McFatland
Tuesday, March 10, 2026
We are so sorry for your loss. Laura was always a kind, loving presence wherever she went.
May God comfort you and all those who loved her.
Wynne Wright
Tuesday, March 10, 2026
I am so sorry to hear of Laura's death. I remember her as a beautiful young girl in a beautiful family! May she rest in peace!
Andy Luttrell
Tuesday, March 10, 2026
Prayers for the Foster family.
Phaedra Turner
Tuesday, March 10, 2026
My sweet Laura, I'm thankful for the time God gave you and for us crossing paths. I'll love you always.
Dentie and Becky Doyle
Monday, March 9, 2026
Our hearts go out to the family. Laura was such a light in a world full of darkness. She was beautiful inside and out and will be missed by all who were fortunate enough to have known her. She loved her husband and showed it every day. I love that she wasn't afraid to speak her mind about important matters. We are truly sorry and will be praying for the family especially John.
Den & Tammy Rogers
Monday, March 9, 2026
John, Tammy & I are so saddened to hear about Laura. Are prayers are with you and all of the family.
Teresa McCain
Monday, March 9, 2026
John, my heart is breaking for you and all those who loved Laura so much. I just saw you both at church yesterday and she greeted me with her usual hug and kiss on the cheek.
What a servant of the Lord and His people! It was her nature and her purpose to serve others and she did that like no other.
I'm praying that God will give you comfort and peace as only He can during this time and in the days to come. 🙏❤️
Kimberly Sexton
Monday, March 9, 2026
Condolences to family and friends. Laura was one-of-a-kind!