Laurene ‘Laurie’ M. Grant

June 13, 1945 – Aug. 25, 2025

Laurene “Laurie” M. Grant, 80, passed away peacefully on August 25, 2025, after a short hospital stay, surrounded by her family and close friends. 

She was born on June 13, 1945, to Albert and Johanna Ungefug in Lovell. Her childhood was shaped by the wide Wyoming landscapes she loved, hunting arrowheads, exploring the Pryor and Big Horn mountains and cherishing the land that remained part of her identity all her life. 

She graduated valedictorian of Lovell High School in 1963 and earned her degree in education from the University of Wyoming in 1967.

After graduation, Laurie dedicated 37 years to teaching with the Teton County School District, where she became known for her warmth, patience and commitment to helping students succeed. Generations of students, families and colleagues admired her passion for education and the steady encouragement she gave.

Lovingly described by her family as a “stubborn German,” Laurie was fiercely independent and carried a strong sense of self. She was never easily swayed by the opinions of others, yet beneath that determined exterior was a woman deeply devoted to her family and friends. Laurie’s independence extended into the rhythms of everyday life, where she found comfort in routine. For years, she faithfully sat in the same place at church on Sundays, drawing peace from the familiarity of her surroundings.

An adventurer at heart, Laurie traveled widely, with a particular love for exploring castles and sampling single malt Scotch. She was also known for her independence, quick wit and sense of humor, which brightened every room she entered. Despite her many travels, Wyoming was always home, and its rugged beauty gave her peace throughout her life.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Albert and Johanna Ungefug, and husband Arwin Grant.

Laurie was the beloved mother of Julie Grant and Jessica Grant, stepson Chris Grant, daughter-in-law Courtney Grant, son-in-law Jack Nath and the proud grandmother of Addison Grant and Arwin Grant. Laurie delighted in time with her grandchildren, and their “Grandma Date Days” on Fridays were filled with love and joy. 

Laurie’s legacy of love, kindness and adventurous spirit will live on in the hearts of all who knew her. She will be deeply missed by her family, friends and everyone whose life she touched.

Laurie’s spirit, love for the land and deep connection to her family and students will live on in the hearts of all who knew her. 

A memorial service celebrating her life will be held October 11 at 11 a.m. at the First Baptist Church in Jackson, Wyoming. 

In honor of Laurie’s love for Wyoming’s wild landscapes, donations may be made to the Pryor Mountain Wild Mustang Center, P.O. Box 385, Lovell, WY 82431.