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Laura Jayne Madden never met a stranger—only friends she hadn’t made yet. Her warmth, energy, and boundless kindness touched everyone who had the joy of knowing her. Whether she was cheering on the Kansas City Chiefs, riding horses while on vacation in Branson, or simply lending a helping hand, Laura embraced life with enthusiasm and love.
Born on February 9, 1969, in Newton, Iowa, to Robert Orie and Martha Jayne (Robson) Guthrie, Laura grew up with a deep appreciation for family and community. She graduated from Newton Senior High School with the Class of 1987 and spent 23 years as a Senior Branch Office Administrator at Edward Jones Investments, where she was not only a trusted colleague but also a dear friend to many.
On May 16, 1998, Laura married the love of her life, Joseph Kyle Madden, in Newton. Their years together were filled with laughter, adventure, and unwavering support for one another. She found joy in shopping trips, working out, and caring for animals—especially her beloved fur babies, Maggie and Mollie. But most of all, she found fulfillment in being there for others, always offering encouragement, generosity, and a listening ear.
Laura passed away on March 13, 2025, at Pella Regional Hospital at the age of 56. She was preceded in death by her parents and her brothers, Robert “Bobby” Guthrie and Tom Guthrie. Her memory lives on in the hearts of her devoted husband, Joe; her brothers, Bert (Marta) Guthrie, Mick (Kim) Guthrie, and Jeff (Tricia) Guthrie; her sister-in-law, Debbie Guthrie; her many cherished nieces and nephews; and countless friends whose lives she brightened.
A celebration of Laura’s life will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, March 18, 2025, at Pence-Reese Funeral Home in Newton, with a Facebook Live Broadcast available for those unable to attend. The family will greet friends from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. on Monday at the funeral home. Memorials in Laura’s honor may be directed to Hope Ministries or Samaritan’s Purse disaster relief and can be left at the funeral home.
Laura’s vibrant spirit, kindness, and infectious laughter will be deeply missed but never forgotten. Those who knew her will carry her love in their hearts always, knowing that her legacy of generosity and joy lives on.