Janet Laws (nee Motts), of Wright City, passed away Friday, April 18, at the age of 80. Loving wife of Joe Laws; beloved daughter of the late Forrest Jacob and Pauline Ellen Motts; devoted mother of Jay Laws, Jerry (Mishelle) Laws, and James Laws; cherished grandmother of Siena Laws and Benjamin Laws; dear sister of Sharon (Tom) Wilmore and brother David Motts.
Janet was a devoted wife, mother, and friend who lived a life rooted in love, faith, and service. Married to the love of her life, Joe, for 58 beautiful years—it would have been 59 in June—their journey began as college sweethearts at Purdue University, where their first date was at the Purdue Union Sweetshop. Together, they built a life centered around family, church, and shared adventures, especially their cherished trips (first camping and then in cabins) to Table Rock lake and Branson with their children.
A valedictorian of Jimtown High School in Indiana, Janet was a bright and thoughtful woman whose intelligence shone through in everything she did. She spent over 25 years as a dedicated librarian, nurturing a love of reading in others while continuing to enjoy it herself. She was an active member of the United Methodist Women’s groups in both Wright City and Florissant where she donated hundreds of her world famous homemade fruitcakes and other baked goods to help raise money for the church. She made her famous fruitcakes for family and friends and charities for over 50 years. She was always ready to lend a hand—whether it was for a church event, school occasion, or Boy Scouts activity.
Though reserved at first, Janet’s warmth and gentle spirit always came through. She found joy in quiet hobbies like knitting, reading, and doing puzzles, but her greatest joy came from supporting and caring for her family. Self-less and loyal, she was always the first to show up, quietly and wholeheartedly, for those she loved.
Janet was a wonderful woman who touched the lives of many. She was dearly loved and will be deeply missed by all who knew her.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Janet's name to Wesley-Smith Chapel United Methodist Church or the American Diabetes Association.
