Maura Mary O’Keeffe Carter, beloved mother, grandmother and dedicated Laguna Beach community member, passed away peacefully on July 24, 2026. She was born on March 7, 1948, in Cavan, Ireland, and her journey through life was one marked by compassion, generosity and selflessness.

Maura built a meaningful life that touched many, both professionally and personally. She devoted much of her career to enriching the lives of children and families. Caring for people was a theme that ran throughout Maura’s life. She began her professional career while in Ireland, as a registered nurse. Her dedication to the wellbeing of others was evident in every patient she comforted and colleague she supported. In 1980, she immigrated to the United States, settling in Laguna Beach. Maura opened a children’s daycare as the owner and operator for over 20 years where she nurtured countless young minds with patience, kindness, and unwavering care. Her ability to create a warm, welcoming environment made her a trusted figure for families. Her generous spirit extended into her community service as a volunteer at her Laguna Presbyterian Church, where she found meaningful ways to give back and support those around her through faith and friendship. Throughout, these roles, Maura exemplified what it means to serve with empathy and integrity. During her retirement years, she continued to give her time and heart, by volunteering at the Assistance League of Laguna Beach where she was honored twice for her dedicated work.

Maura also knew how to find joy in life and was a woman of many passions and deep connections. Music, singing and dancing brought her immense joy. She was famous for dancing an Irish jig with her children, grandchildren and friends. Above all, Maura’s greatest joy was her family. She especially cherished her grandchildren and the time she spent watching them grow and celebrating their accomplishments. Being their Granny brought her tremendous happiness and the love she gave them will remain an enduring part of her legacy. She also kept a close connection to her five siblings in Ireland, Germany and the United Kingdom phoning them weekly.

Maura leaves behind two devoted sons, Damian Carter and Alexander Carter; daughters-in-law Lauren Carter and Stephanie Maher; five grandchildren: Kaylee Carter, Brenden Carter, Layton Turner, Marlow Turner and Tallulah Carter; siblings: Frankie O’Keeffe, Gerry O’Keeffe, Paul O’Keefe, Kathleen Conaty, and Rose Hiller; and special friend Bernadette Whelan. Her legacy is one of kindness, service, faith, laughter and love. She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her.