Laura Mae McArthur, 67, of Excelsior Springs, Mo., passed away Sunday, April 14, 2019 at the Excelsior Springs Medical Center. Laura was born on September 16, 1951 in Independence, Mo., to William M. Barnes and Laura B. (Elliott) Barnes. She had lived her entire life in Clay County, Mo.

On May 22, 1982 in a ceremony in Gladstone, Mo., she married a Vietnam Veteran and a great man, Randy McArthur, who survives her at the home. She had drove a school bus for the Excelsior Springs School District for 19 years. She retired in 2013. While growing up, she attended and became a member of the Kearney First Baptist Church. Laura loved her pets. She loved all the kids, which was evident by her years of driving a school bus. She was a go getter and loved being around people. She had a great sense of humor. She was famous for her baked beans that were just like her moms, and her peanut butter fudge that was awesome.

Laura was preceded in death by her parents and a brother, Bill Barnes.

She is survived by her husband, Randy McArthur of the home; a daughter, Lacy McArthur and son-in-law, David Lynn of Orrick, Mo.; a brother and sister-in-law, Terry Barnes and wife, Lore of Kearney, Mo.; a grandson, Dallas Lynn of Orrick, Mo.; a sister-in-law, Brenda Barnes of Kearney, Mo.; and a brother -in-law, Donald L. McArthur of Kentucky. Also surviving are several nephews, nieces and friends.

Visitation will be from 1:00 to 2:30 p.m. Friday, April 19, 2019 at Gowing Funeral Home in Orrick. Funeral services will immediately follow at 2:30 p.m. at the funeral home. Burial will be in the North New Garden Cemetery near Excelsior Springs, Mo.