Laura Nell (Hellyer) Locken

Laura Nell Locken passed away in her sleep at the age of 83 in College Place, Washington, on March 17, 2026. Though she resided in College Place, she lived most of her life in La Grande, Oregon.

Nell was born May 10, 1942, in Santa Rita, New Mexico. She was married on July 1, 1961, to LaVerne “Foot” Locken. They were blessed with two sons, six grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren. Nell was married for 64 years. Her husband preceded her in death in 2025. Nell loved her family. She is survived by sons Larry (Jennifer) and David (Kimberly); grandchildren Natosha, Nichole (Matthew), Tysen, Lance, Victoria, and McKenzie; and great-grandchildren Elena, Corinne, Josephine, and Micah.

Nell attended Eastern Oregon University, where she met LaVerne “Foot” Locken. He had a car and would take Nell and her friends to dances. They were married on July 1, 1961, in The Odell Methodist Church. Both Foot’s and Nell’s parents went on the honeymoon while Foot and Nell returned to their home in Elgin. They were blessed with two sons, Larry in 1962 and David in 1963.

Nell began working as an office clerk at Montgomery Ward in La Grande. She then moved to CP National to work in the office. Later, she left the office to be outside enjoying nature while reading meters. As a meter reader, Nell traveled from North Powder to Morgan Lake and Cricket Flat. She even ventured to the tower at Mt. Fanny for her meter reading duties. Nell enjoyed visiting with people and dogs. She always carried dog biscuits and was never bitten by a dog. One day, she was reading meters in Elgin, and a stray dog followed her around town all day. She brought him home, bathed, trimmed, and fed him. She gave him to her mother for a companion, and he was named Lucky.

Nell’s love for animals grew when she cared for a cockatoo for a friend. She decided to start a bird rescue/business. She raised, rehomed, and cared for birds who needed help. At one time, she cared for over 50 birds, including cockatiels, lovebirds, quakers, and amazon parrots.

Nell was a talented seamstress who made hunting vests, jackets, blankets, and costumes for her sons. Her talents extended to making dresses for her granddaughters once she became a grandmother. She created stained-glass pictures, lamps, and gifts for family members. Nell belonged to the American Legion, worked at the food bank, helped build the animal shelter, and helped prepare donated items for resale at a thrift store.

She was a selfless lady who will be missed by her family and friends.

A graveside service will be held at Island City Cemetery on April 11, 2026, at 11:00 AM, with a reception to follow at the Barrel Room in Island City.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Blue Mountain Humane Society or the American Legion through the Herring Groseclose Funeral Home, 315 W Alder St, Walla Walla, WA 99362. Friends and family are invited to sign the online guestbook at www.herringgroseclose.com.