Janet Laws

Janet Laws (nee Motts), of Wright City, MO, passed away Friday, April 18, 2025 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 (Michelle) Laws, and James Laws; cherished grandmother of Siena Laws and Benjamin Laws; dear sister of Sharon (Tom) Wilmore and 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. Together, they built a life centered around family, church, and shared adventures, especially their cherished camping trips with their children.

A valedictorian of Jimtown High School, Janet was a bright and thoughtful woman whose intelligence shone through in everything she did. She spent over 22 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 Florissant and Wright City and was always ready to lend a hand—whether it was for a church event, a sports game, or a Boy Scouts activity.

Though reserved at first, Janet’s warmth and gentle spirit always came through once you got to know her. Janet was famous for her homemade fruitcakes and other baking which helped raise money for church, selling hundreds each year. She found joy in quiet hobbies like knitting and reading, but her greatest joy came from supporting and caring for her family. Selfless 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 (https://www.umc.org/en/find-a-church/church?id=001Um00000PFKukIAH) or the American Diabetes Association.