Amherst, Ma: Laura Anne Read (née Driscoll), a cherished individual known for her kind heart, bright personality, and strength of spirit, passed away on September 5, 2024, surrounded by her husband and two daughters. Born on July 30, 1952 in Washington, D.C., Laura lived a life filled with joy and a tremendous care for others.

Laura is survived by her husband, William Read, two daughters, Kathryn and Meghanne Martel, two sons-in-law, Jordan Hall and Derek Venticinque, two stepdaughters; Lindsay Read and Stacey Mushenski, eight adoring grandchildren, and her dear golden retriever, Maggie. She also leaves behind three elder brothers: William, Stephen, and Richard Driscoll. She is preceded in death by her former husband, Peter Martel, and her parents Walter and Elizabeth Driscoll.

Laura grew up in Framingham and Sudbury, MA, and attended Lincoln Sudbury High School. She enjoyed singing in the school chorus and had a wonderful group of friends. She later attended Salem State College, where she majored in Early Childhood Education and discovered a love of dance and theater. Laura also attended the Boston Conservatory of Music, where she studied dance intensively. She worked with the Ipswich Moving Company, where she taught classes, managed the studio, and danced professionally for a short time.

Laura befriended children everywhere she went, as if they shared an unspoken language.

For forty years, Laura was a family daycare provider, caring for small children full time. She touched many lives through childcare and valued play as a crucial element of growth and development. As an early childhood educator, she filled each day with learning through art, song, play, lots of outdoor time, naptime snuggles, and budding friendships. Laura’s House was as lively as it was nurturing.

In 2001, Laura met William Read through friends at Fort River Elementary School (Amherst, MA), and they married in 2009. Their union provided fortitude for their blended family, creating immense joy and a loving foundation for their four daughters, sons-in-law, and grandchildren. Together, Bill and Laura enjoyed visiting Prince Edward Island and Colorado to enjoy time in nature and be surrounded by extended family.

Laura had endless energy and loved to garden. She and Bill spent countless hours tending to their flowers, working on the lawn, and landscaping their home, but always made time for a dip in the pool. Her bright spirit and courageous attitude helped plants to grow and people to thrive.

Laura will be dearly missed by her family, friends, and all who knew her.

Calling hours will be held at Douglass Funeral Home on Monday, September 16, 2024, 5-7pm.

A private celebration of life will take place at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in her name to UNICEF. https://www.unicefusa.org

Memorial guestbook at www.douglassfuneral.com