Laura J. Moser (née Smolik)

Laura J. Moser (née Smolik), age 74, passed away peacefully on June 17, 2026, at Rush-Copley Medical Center in Aurora, Illinois, the city in which she lived. She was born on April 23, 1952.

Laura graduated from Lockport West High School in Romeoville, Illinois, in 1970. She spent much of her life as a dedicated server, a profession she truly loved. Laura cherished her customers and coworkers, and her warm personality, quick wit, and genuine care for others left a lasting impression on everyone she met.

Laura is survived by her beloved husband, Jeffrey G. Moser, the love of her life. The two were married in Waynesville, North Carolina, while visiting the beautiful Smoky Mountains, creating a memory they treasured throughout their marriage.

She is also survived by her son, Kurt Smolik (Jennifer) and grandchildren Ethan and Jacob Smolik: stepdaughters, Jessica Bray (Kris) and Amity Prime; sister, Nancy Hatten (Michael); brothers, Richard Smolik, Daniel Smolik (Patricia), and Charlie Smolik; as well as many cherished grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Laura was preceded in death by her father, Richard R. Smolik, Sr.; her mother, Mary A. Smolik (née Jackson); and her brother, John F. Smolik.

Laura found great joy in spending time with Jeffrey and their dear friends, Dorothy and Brad, in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula and along the shores of Lake Superior. She had many passions throughout her life, including serving as a moderator for the Southwest Florida Eagle Cam website, advocating for hummingbirds and their survival, gardening, and cheering on her favorite sports teams. She was a phenomenal gardener, an enthusiastic sports fan, and a devoted supporter of everyone she loved.

Above all else, Laura’s greatest love was her family. She faithfully followed the lives and accomplishments of her grandchildren and took immense pride in each of them. The same was true for her nieces and nephews—Laura was the family’s biggest cheerleader, always ready to offer encouragement, support, and praise. She never missed an opportunity to celebrate the people she loved.

Laura was often the first to arrive at family gatherings to help set up and the last to leave after making sure everything was cleaned up. Her family will forever remember her famous taco salad and cowboy caviar, her infectious laughter, her wonderful sense of humor, her enormous hugs, and her favorite saying: “I love you more than my luggage.” Her deep faith and steadfast belief that our lives are in God’s hands brought comfort and strength to those around her.

Laura’s kindness, generosity, and unwavering love for family and friends will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who knew her.

A Celebration of Life will be held in August, with details to be announced by the family.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the American Lung Association in Laura’s honor.