Laura Elizabeth Tabbal

Laura Elizabeth Tabbal of Samsonville, NY passed away on Saturday December 11, 2010 after twelve years of refusing to let cancer slow her down. A woman of unrivaled independence, creativity, and style, Laura was born on February 6th, 1958 in Detroit, Michigan, where she studied Visual Arts at Cass Technical High School and completed her Waldorf teacher training. A master weaver and fiber artist, Laura loved fishing and hiking, working in her garden, and finishing the crossword puzzle before most had made their morning coffee, a task made easy by her voracious reading habits and passion for knowledge. Her ability to devote herself to the needs of others despite her own hardships drew the admiration of those who were lucky to have known her.

Her parents John Lacatis and Helen Levine, née Gawronski, and sister Monica Lacatis-Negron precede her in death. She is survived by daughters Alima Tabbal and Tecora Davis, son Zakir Davis and his daughter Noëlle Elizabeth, sister Audrey Onyeike, and Fred Keogan, her devoted spouse of 16 years. Laura will be missed dearly by her family, friends, and countless loyal songbirds. In lieu of flowers the family asks that her generosity be honored with donations to Heifer International or the Breast Cancer Research Foundation. A memorial celebration will be held at a later date with family and friends.