Stevensville – Laura Lynn (Arnold) Short, age 67, beloved mother, grandmother, sister and friend, passed away on Tuesday, February 8. Per her wishes, she passed peacefully at home in the presence of family.
Laura was a longtime resident of the Bitterroot Valley, raising her three children, Lee, Lem and Lynn, and creating many lifelong friends. Prior to her many health challenges in recent years, she was an accomplished horsewoman, worked for Ravalli County and served in support of many local organizations and causes. She was also an artist, crafting antler chandeliers and tending beautiful flower gardens.
Our Mom truly never met a stranger and would give freely of her time and any other resources she could muster to help those in need. She derived great joy in serving others and many in the valley were recipients of her kindness and, she in turn was blessed by them as well. If she could choose her perfect day, it would include grandkids, dogs, horses, homemade meals, and time spent together as family.
Laura is reunited in Heaven with her parents, Tom and Jane Arnold, companion Chuck Medsker, faithful dog, Gus, and countless friends, extended family, and animals that she loved so dearly. She is survived by her brother, Ed (Terry) Arnold; sister, Sherry Arnold; sons, Lee (Brandy) Short, Lem (Paula) Short; and daughter, Lynn (Brock) Short. Laura leaves numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family in addition to seven grandchildren, who were the light of her life and brought such joy to her heart: Cody, Colter, Caden, Colby, Katey, Mya, and Chase.
Our family extends sincere appreciation and gratitude to many who helped to keep our Mom on the farm that she loved as her health declined in recent years and especially during her final days. Your kind words, taking time to check in on her and the many ways in which you provided support and love are deeply appreciated. Special thanks to Partners in Home Care for their compassionate care and support.
Per Laura’s wishes, cremation has taken place and we plan to celebrate her life later this summer. Condolences may be left for the family at www.dalyleachchapel.com or sent c/o Lem Short, 637 Ridge Road, Stevensville, MT 59870. Those wishing to honor our Mom’s memory, we ask that you offer help to someone in need, befriend someone who is lonely, extend kindness to others and choose to find joy in life’s smallest and simplest treasures.