Laura Johnson

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Laura Louise Yost Johnson on December 29, 2024, at the age of 64, after three long and difficult years on dialysis.

Laura was born on June 15, 1960, in Kellogg, Idaho, the fourth of five children to Herbert Meral and Doris Yost. Her childhood was a journey across the western United States as her family worked together to build silos—some of which still stand as enduring monuments to their efforts.

She graduated from high school in Malta, Idaho, and later married Steven Michael Johnson, with whom she had three daughters. Although they eventually parted ways, their shared journey brought her the greatest joys of her life: her daughters Nichole, Erin, and Jamie.

Laura instilled in her daughters a deep appreciation for the outdoors, teaching them to cherish fresh air, sunshine, and the tranquility of nature. Summers were often spent camping in the mountains, with tents, sleeping bags, Dutch ovens, and fishing poles as staples. Under her guidance, her daughters became excellent anglers, a skill and passion passed down to the next generation. Her love for camping remained strong throughout her life, and some of her happiest recent moments were spent on fall camping trips surrounded by family.

Laura approached life at her own pace, savoring its blessings and reminding others to treasure the present. Around a crackling campfire, with marshmallows roasting and laughter filling the air, her spirit came alive. Her strength, kindness, and love for life will continue to live on through the family and friends who knew her.

She was preceded in death by her father, Herbert Meral Yost; her mother, Doris Yost; her brother, David Yost; and her sister, Anna Burton.

Laura is survived by her daughters, Nichole (Craig) Hastings, Erin (Matt) Buttars, and Jamie (Kyle) Larsen, along with 10 cherished grandchildren: Colin, Kyleigh, Makayla, and Braxton (Nichole); Lily and Izabel (Erin); and Felix, Harper, Knox, and Ryker (Jamie). She is also survived by her sister, Barbara (Gary) Tidwell; her brother, Herbert (Wendy) Yost; her sister-in-law, Cathie Yost; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

A viewing will be held at Nelson Funeral Home in Smithfield, UT (85 S Main St.), on January 2, 2025, from 12 p.m. to 1 p.m., followed by a short indoor graveside service. Interment will follow at Smithfield City Cemetery.

In remembrance of our mom, Laura Louise Yost Johnson, please take care of yourself. Caring for your health and well-being is the best gift you can give to your loved ones.