Family shock as ‘always smiling’ Laura, 35, dies

THE family of a “selfless and loving” nurse and volunteer have paid tribute after she passed away aged 35.

Laura Balfour died on Monday three weeks after contracting an infection in her foot that later led to sepsis.

The former Ninewells staff nurse, who l ater worked in Whitehills Health and Community Centre, is survived by her daughter Chloe, 17, as well as sisters Vicki and Louise.

Today her parents Brydon and Elaine paid tribute to their “always smiling” daughter, who was a frequent sight at Lowson Memorial Church.

Brydon, 60, said: “She was always very active in the church.

“My family is all Forfar, Elaine’s family are Forfar. It has been hard but we have got a lot of support around us — Laura’s sisters Vicki and Louise have been great.

“A lot of people are going to miss her and we’re expecting a very full church at her service.”

After joining the church at a young age, Laura spent more than 20 years volunteering there.

She was also a well-known member of the Forfar Musical Society. The society dedicated their performance of the musical Annie to her last night.

“She was always busy,” Brydon said. “She and her husband split up 17 years ago, leaving her with wee Chloe — but she has done so well.”

A “gifted” student at Forfar Academy, Laura excelled in languages.

The family are at a loss to explain how Laura’s sepsis developed. Elaine said: “When she went back into hospital on Saturday her condition just deteriorated and she developed sepsis — we were devastated.

“She didn’t keep in the best of health but she never let that keep her down. She was always off doing things — and Chloe was the world to her.

“She would do anything for anyone she was selfless and loving. I think she took comfort in her religion — she would count the minister and her family as real friends.”

Laura’s funeral service takes place at the Lowson Memorial Church on Wednesday at 11.30am following a private interment. Family flowers only are requested, but donations can be made to the Lowson Church Community Hub.

The family has asked for guests to wear bright colours to reflect Laura’s personality.

Laura Balfour, left, who has died at the age of 35. Right: Pictured at a cousin’s wedding with her daughter Chloe.