On 2026-07-20, Representative Dusty Johnson (R-SD) delivered a floor speech titled "HONORING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF JEAN PULSCHER" in the House.
HONORING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF JEAN PULSCHER Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 118 (Monday, July 20, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 118 (Monday, July 20, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E705] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF JEAN PULSCHER ______ HON. DUSTY JOHNSON of south dakota in the house of representatives Monday, July 20, 2026 Mr. JOHNSON of South Dakota. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of Laura Jean Pulscher, of Dell Rapids, South Dakota, a devoted wife, mother, accomplished musician, educator, woman of faith, and courageous advocate whose extraordinary life touched countless people across her community and beyond. My thoughts are with her family as they recognize the first anniversary of her passing. Laura passed away on July 10, 2025, after a nine-year battle with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a devastating and fatal neurodegenerative disease. Laura met every challenge in her life with determination, grace, and unwavering faith. A gifted musician, writer, and leader, she dedicated her talents to serving others through ministry, education, and community engagement. Whether leading worship, mentoring young people, homeschooling her children, or encouraging others facing adversity, Laura consistently put the needs of others before her own. Even as ALS progressively stole her ability to speak and move, it never diminished her determination to serve others. Laura continued to organize family activities, support her children's education, write and publish a book about her faith journey, maintain connections with friends and family, and offer encouragement to others facing hardship. Her resilience stands as a powerful testament to the strength of the human spirit and the profound difference one person can make in the lives of others. Laura's life is a powerful reminder of both the extraordinary courage of people living with ALS and the urgent need to advance research and care for those affected by this devastating disease. We extend our deepest condolences to her husband, Toby; her children, Malcolm, Oliver, and Mercedes; her parents, Jay and Sharon Brosius; and all her family and friends who mourn her loss while celebrating a life exceptionally well lived. May Laura Jean Pulscher's legacy of faith, service, courage, and love continue to inspire all who have the privilege of hearing her story, and may her memory forever be a blessing. ____________________