Laura Lee Croy , age 65 of Elwood, passed away peacefully on Thursday, January 1, 2026 at Elwood Health and Living following an extended illness. She was born December 12, 1960 in Elwood, the beloved daughter of Larry and Ellarie (Stacy) Hughes. Laura attended Tri Central High School and continued her education at I.U.K.  Laura married the love of her life, Harry Croy, Jr. on November 26, 1977 and they shared over 48 years of love and marriage together.  She dedicated many years as a nurse's aide at local nursing homes, a bookkeeper at the Elwood Water Department, and a biller for many local offices. However, her greatest joy came from working as a preschool aide alongside her daughter at Elwood Preschool, where she nurtured young hearts with the same warmth she gave her own family.

Laura found happiness in life's simple pleasures—playing bingo, shopping, camping, and attending festivals with loved ones. She cherished traditions, such as her monthly routine of getting her nails done in festive colors, but her heart always belonged to her family. Laura devoted herself to planning and hosting family gatherings, filling each moment with laughter and love. Nothing brought her more delight than spending time with her grandchildren, who lovingly called her "Maw-Maw" and "Gamma."

Above all, Laura will be remembered as a devoted and adoring wife, mother, and grandmother. Her greatest legacy is the unconditional love she shared with her family, and the countless memories she created with those she held dearest.

Laura is survived by her husband Harry Croy, Jr. of Elwood; 2 daughters, Casey (Brad) Laub of Elwood, and Carley Croy of Marion; sister, Linda (Scott) Roan of Tipton; 7 grandchildren, Ellie Laub, Miles Laub, Ryder Laub, Casen Croy, Ryker Croy, Reid Croy, and Abel Croy; father-in-law, Harry Croy, Sr. of Elwood; 2 sisters-in-law, Pam (Larry) Coffman of Elwood, and Tammy Idlewine of Elwood; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins.  Laura is preceded in death by her parents, a brother at birth, and her mother-in-law, Evonia Croy.

Laura's wishes were to be cremated and her family will have a celebration of life at later date.  Memorial contributions in honor of Laura may be made to the Elwood Community Schools.  Copher-Fesler-May Funeral Home in Elwood is honored to handle Laura's arrangements.  Online condolences and memories may be shared at copherfeslermay.com.