Laura Elizabeth Andrew

Laura Elizabeth Andrew, 68, of Thurmont, Maryland, died January 22, 2026, peacefully at her home. Born December 4, 1957, in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, she was the daughter of the late William Henry Miller and Agnes F. Miller. Laura was a dedicated contract worker at Fort Detrick for many years; a role she took great pride in until her illness prevented her from continuing. She was a woman of many passions, in particular she enjoyed camping, gardening (especially her big yearly garden), sewing and making blankets, and hosting card parties and gatherings. Above all, Laura loved cooking and feeding everyone, a gift she shared generously with family, friends, and anyone who walked through her door. One of the most important relationships in Laura’s life was her 45-year friendship with Janet Portner. They were inseparable and rarely seen without one another. Janet played a deeply meaningful role in Laura’s life, especially during her final years. Laura is survived by her children, Ginger Deavers and R.J. Smith; her grandchildren, Tre Smith and Declan Smith; and her siblings, Pete Miller and wife Donna of Thurmont, Christine Wisner and husband Brian of Thurmont, and Threasa Davis of Boling Springs, PA. Laura was also blessed with many nieces and nephews whom she loved dearly. Among them, she shared an especially close bond with her two great‑nieces and two great‑nephews: Marques Miller, Lynzee Davis, Kamdin Miller, and Nyla Miller, each of whom held a special place in her heart. At Laura’s request, there will be no viewing. She did not want others to grieve her loss, but instead to celebrate her life with friends, family, and plenty of food, just as she lived. Her family will honor her wishes with a celebration of life gathering at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made on Laura’s behalf to Frederick Health Development Office, PO Box 718, Frederick, MD 21705-9910. Funeral arrangements made by Myers-Durboraw Funeral Home, P.A., Emmitsburg.