Our sister Laurie was born in Portland Oregon to Philomena Arditi Stewart and Samuel Berthold Stewart. They precede her in death.
Laurie was a precocious, brilliant child and a loving daughter and sister. Her early years were spent, primarily, in Salem Oregon, where she excelled academically and musically. In her teens, she lived with her family in Korea. She graduated from Lewis and Clark College. She studied in Europe and earned a Masters Degree in French. Her career was primarily at OHSU, working as a research technician. It was there she met her last husband, Richard Sheets. He preceded her in death.
Laurie was an incredibly strong woman. As a teenager she survived severe injuries suffered in an automobile accident. She brought that same strength to her battle with cancer. In her final days she found love and support from nephew Sean, and her friends Polly, Trish, and Fana.
Laurie loved her animals. The “Kids” were the light of her life. She loved her Italian Aunts, Uncles, and cousins. She loved her niece and nephews and their children. They brought her joy. And, as only Laurie could, she loved their pets as well.
A funeral service will be held Sunday October 3, 2021 at 11:00 AM at Riverview Abbey.
To send flowers
to the family or plant a tree
in memory of Francesca (Laurie) Lorraine Stewart Sheets, please visit our floral store.