Born Laura Shelton on May 17, 1927 in Gulfport Mississippi, her parents were Albert and Laura Shelton. She was the youngest of 5 children and was raised in Mississippi and New Orleans. She met her future husband, Burckel Thomas Kraus (BT) while attending college.  They eloped in 1947 and their love resulted in nearly 70 years of marriage. She bore and raised 4 children during the tirbulent 1960's and 1970's.  She unconditionally loved the spouses of her children just as she loved her children All felt her love and acceptance! BT was the love of her life. Thru good and bad times she remained a stalwart soldier for the entire family. A better advocate for her family has never been born.       She will be loved and missed by all.