Laurie Jane Leavitt

Laurie Jane Leavitt peacefully passed away in Salem, Oregon, on March 2, 2026, due to complications from Multiple Sclerosis. In keeping with her wishes, her body has been donated to science with the hope of helping others.

Laurie was a gifted musician and artist whose creativity touched every part of her life. She embraced the arts wholeheartedly and found joy in many forms of expression. She took every music class available at Mesa Community College—often more than once—and developed remarkable skill in transposing music and accompanying other musicians.

Laurie also carried a deep compassion for those who felt like “misfits.” She loved serving in her callings in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, especially in her work with the youth and as a temple ordinance worker in the House of the Lord.Born and raised in Rigby, Idaho, Laurie graduated from Rigby High School. Over the years, she made homes in West Richland, Washington; Mesa, Arizona; and Salem, Oregon.

Laurie was preceded in death by her parents, Jesse Boyd Leavitt and Sheryn DaBell Leavitt. She is survived by her husband, Gary Pounder of Salem, Oregon; her sister Susan (Russell) Blank of Atlanta, Georgia; her brothers Gary (Lisa) Leavitt of North Salt Lake, Utah, and Ronald (Kathleen) Leavitt of Pocatello, Idaho; her son Cameron (Shiloh) McMurtrey of Phoenix, Arizona; and her daughter Melinda (Jason) Jackson of Atlanta, Georgia. She is also lovingly remembered by her stepchildren: Debra Duckett, Sara Phillips, Galynne Davis, Grayson Pounder, Ben Pounder, April Shaw, Kayci Oravec, Bryan Umphrey, and Kawnie Rasko. Laurie leaves behind 3 grandchildren, 2 great grandchildren, and many step grandchildren and step great grandchildren who will carry her memory forward.

A memorial service will be held on March 28th, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Eckersell Funeral Home, 101 West Main St.Rigby, Idaho 83442.

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