Laura Lydia McIlvain, loving daughter, sister

Laura Lydia McIlvain, 36, passed away suddenly early Sunday morning, April 28, 2024.

She graduated from Cape Henlopen High School in 2005, where she played field hockey and softball, and was a member of the swim team. She attended Shippensburg University, where she continued to play field hockey. She finished her education at University of Houston, where she graduated summa cum laude.

Laura had a bit of wanderlust, spending time in Houston, Texas, Denver, Colo., and recently buying a house and settling on the Eastern Shore of Virginia in Parksley. Those who knew her, know of her love for the Philadelphia Eagles, Go Birds!

She is preceded in death by her paternal grandparents, Robert and Pat McIlvain; and her maternal grandmother, Joyce Walueff. 

Laura is survived by her parents, Robert and Janine McIlvain; her sister, Leigh McIlvain-Copp (Justin); her maternal grandfather, W. Leroy Mears; her friend, Richard Trent; and her two rescue dogs, Abby and Aspen.

Laura was brave and fierce, she was stubborn, she was kind, she was loyal, she was intelligent, and she was beautiful! Her incredible wit and kindness will be horribly missed by her family and friends.

A memorial service will be held at a later date.

Due to her love of animals, Laura’s family suggests donating in her memory to Grass Roots Rescue, grrde.org.

Online condolences may be sent by visiting melsonfuneralservices.com.