Laurie Ellen Makature, a lifelong resident of Long Beach, California, passed away peacefully on Nov. 11, 2025, at the age of 78, while receiving hospice care.
Laurie Ellen Makature
She was born on Sept. 30, 1947, to George and Laura Makature, and spent her formative years in Long Beach, where she attended local schools and developed deep ties to the community.
Laurie was gifted in the arts and expressed her creativity in many forms. She played the guitar with skill, created handmade jewelry, and was an accomplished painter and sculptor.
Her artistic pursuits were a defining part of her life and reflected her gentle nature and thoughtful spirit.
Throughout her working years, Laurie held various positions, with her final and most meaningful role as an active member and secretary for Immanuel Community Church in Long Beach. Her time there brought her a sense of purpose, structure, and connection.
In the late 1960s, Laurie entered into a brief marriage. Though the marriage did not endure, she carried forward with grace.
While she had no children of her own, she had three nieces: Laura Donaldson, Kim Clark, and the late Marla Bevan. Laurie was also Kim’s godmother.
At the request of Laurie’s late mother, Kim served as Laurie’s guardian for the past 30 years, providing steadfast care and support.
Laurie faced significant challenges throughout her life as a result of severe mental illness. Despite these hardships, she demonstrated resilience and perseverance. She continued to live with determination and dignity, doing the best she could in the face of circumstances that were often extraordinarily difficult.
In her later years, she resided in a nursing facility, where she received compassionate care and comfort.
Laurie was preceded in death by her parents, George and Laura Makature; her stepfather, Bob McCarthy; her brother, Ken Makature; and her niece, Marla Bevan.
She is survived by her nieces, Laura and Kim, as well as extended family members and friends who will remember her with affection and respect.
The family will honor Laurie’s wish to have her ashes scattered over the ocean in Long Beach, returning her to the place she cherished throughout her life. She is now at peace with God.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to organizations supporting mental health awareness, in recognition of Laurie’s lifelong journey.
Laurie will be remembered for her artistic talents, her gentle soul, and her enduring bravery in the face of profound challenges.