Laura Virginia Townsend passed away peacefully on May 24, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family. She was the beloved wife of SFC, Edward Townsend Jr., U.S. Army Retired.

Laura is survived by her devoted husband, Edward Townsend Jr.; her loving children, Candi Oettel-Hale and her husband Todd, Robert Oettel Jr. and his wife Heather, and Allyson Rather and her husband Bruce. She was a cherished grandmother to Allen Hale and his wife Melissa, Ashley Hale-Pfeiffer and her husband Brandon, Sgt. Deployed, Mikayla Oettel, Matthew Oettel, and Ayden Townsend. She was also blessed with great-grandchildren, Michael Pfeiffer and Colton Oettel.

Laura is also survived by her dear siblings Nancy Gooner, Shirley Huffer, Robert Esworthy, Thomas Esworthy, Suzanne Reiter, and Matthew Esworthy, as well as numerous loving nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her son, James Esworthy; her parents, Joseph Lemuel Esworthy Sr. and Sylvia Virginia Esworthy (nee Conoles); and her siblings, Jo Anne Esworthy and Joseph Esworthy Jr.

Laura was a loving mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother who treasured every moment spent with her family. She especially enjoyed visiting her grandchildren and great-grandchildren in Florida and Harford County, Maryland. She had a passion for traveling and loved spending time at the beach. Laura also found joy in music, dancing, and cooking for those she loved most.

A visitation will be held at the E.F. Lassahn Funeral Home, P.A., 11750 Belair Road (Kingsville), on Friday, May 29, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. A funeral service will follow the visitation beginning at 8:00 p.m.

A graveside service will be held at Pine Grove Cemetery, 19401 Middletown Road, Parkton, MD 21120, on Saturday, May 30, 2026, at 2:00 p.m.