Estero, Fl/Queensbury

Janet Evelyn (Laurson) Murphy, 61, of Estero, Fl and formerly of Queensbury passed away on Monday April 10, 2017 after a short battle with cancer.

She was predeceased by her parents, Margaret (Seal) Laurson and George Laurson.

Janet was married on August 19, 1978 to John J. “Jack” Murphy.

She was a graduate of Glens Falls High School (1973) and SUNY Potsdam (1977). She taught elementary education in the Glens Falls area until her son Mark was born when she became a full-time mom, her true calling. Continuing with her educational background, she served for a period as administrator of the Christ Church Methodist (Glens Falls) nursery school. In later years, an interest in history led to a close relationship with the Chapman Historical Museum. She served as a member of the Board of Trustees, a docent and a volunteer educator providing outreach programs to local schools and organizations. Most recently, her volunteer hours were dedicated to the Koreshan State Park. There she served as a docent and director the Park’s principal annual fund raiser, “Ghostwalk”, which is a reenactment of the early settlement of Estero. Janet also had a passion for kayaking, thoroughly enjoying her paddling around Round Pond. She also found great pleasure in tending her flower gardens and in folk art painting.

In addition to her devoted husband of nearly 39 years, wonderful memories of Janet with be cherished by her loving son, Mark (Rachel Coffin), sisters, Betsy Moynehan (David), Susan Willig (James), nieces, Kelly Sanford (Doug), Kate Dematteo (Todd), nephews, Dan Moynehan (Julie) and Keith Moynehan (Mina). She is also survived by her brother in-law, Richard Murphy and cousins, Carol Lema, Nancy and Billy Laurson and many wonderful friends.

Janet was always a ray of pure sunshine in other people’s lives. From toddlers to seniors, her friendliness and genuine interest drew others to her as a magnet.

There will be no calling hours.

Service and burial will be private and at the convenience of the family.

Friends may express their condolences through donations to Hope Hospice, 27200 Imperial Parkway, Bonita Springs, FL 34135 or the American Cancer Society, 1 Penny Ln, Latham, NY 12110.

To view Janet’s Book of Memories and post condolences, please visit kilmerfuneralhome.com. Arrangements are in the care of M.B. Kilmer Funeral Home 136 Main Street, South Glens Falls, NY 12803.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Janet Evelyn Murphy (Laurson), please visit our Heartfelt Sympathies Store.