Longtime Kansas Native Laura Beardmore Dies at 100

Beardmore spent decades living in Kansas City before retiring in Arizona

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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Laura Beverly Hale Beardmore, a Kansas native who worked at Boeing during World War II and later spent decades living in Kansas City, passed away on October 3, 2025 at the age of 100 in Peoria, Arizona. Beardmore is survived by her younger sister, three children, several grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

Why it matters

Beardmore's life story reflects the experiences of many Americans who grew up in the Midwest, worked in the booming defense industry during WWII, and later settled in warmer climates after retirement. Her long life and family connections provide a window into 20th century American history.

The details

Born in Mankato, Kansas in 1925, Beardmore worked at Boeing on the B-29 bomber project from 1943-1944 before attending Kansas State University for two years. She married Jean Haden Beardmore in 1946 and spent the majority of her adult life living in Kansas City, working for TWA at the airport and downtown. Beardmore enjoyed playing golf and bridge in her retirement years after moving to Peoria, Arizona.

  • Beardmore was born on October 1, 1925 in Mankato, Kansas.
  • She worked at Boeing from 1943 to 1944.
  • Beardmore attended Kansas State University from 1944 to 1946.
  • She married Jean Haden Beardmore in September 1946.
  • Beardmore passed away on October 3, 2025 in Peoria, Arizona at the age of 100.

The players

Laura Beverly Hale Beardmore

A Kansas native who worked at Boeing during WWII and later spent decades living in Kansas City before retiring in Peoria, Arizona.

Milford and Goldie Hale

Beardmore's parents, who preceded her in death.

Bill Hale

Beardmore's older brother, who preceded her in death.

Betty Hale

Beardmore's older sister, who preceded her in death.

Patricia

Beardmore's younger sister, who survives her at age 95.

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The takeaway

Beardmore's life story reflects the experiences of many Americans who grew up in the Midwest, worked in the booming defense industry during WWII, and later settled in warmer climates after retirement. Her long life and family connections provide a window into 20th century American history.