Laura Slamin Lanfear

Laura Slamin Lanfear was a phenomenal woman who touched the lives of many as a devoted mother, loving partner, cherished daughter, sibling, auntie, teacher, and friend. She passed on September 1st, 2023 after an heroic battle with cancer, leaving behind a legacy of love, kindness, and inspiration.

Born on October 31,1969 in Newton, MA, Laura was a beacon of light for all who knew her. Her infectious smile, warm personality, and beautiful laughter drew people toward her, and she had an innate ability to make everyone feel as though they were the most special person in the room.

Laura poured her heart and soul into raising her two remarkable daughters, Julia and Tessa Lanfear. Her unwavering love, along with the support of their father, Christopher Lanfear, were the foundation upon which her daughters grew. Julia and Tessa will forever carry their parents' spirit within them. Laura passed three days after what would have been her 25th wedding anniversary with her late husband Chris.

As a partner, Laura was a true soulmate to Amy Kelly, and a warm and thoughtful stepmother to Amy's daughter, Olivia Kelly. Amy and Laura were a team for many years, supporting each other through life's ups and downs and their love will continue to shine brightly even in her absence. Together Laura and Amy pursued adventures, travel and fierce support of their many goldendoodles and friends from near and far.

Laura was not only a loving mother and partner, but also a devoted daughter, sibling and auntie. She cherished her parents, Judith and Robert Slamin. Laura was a source of strength and guidance for her mother, her siblings, Joe Slamin (Mary Ellen) and Lynne Smith (Ted Liberatos), her niece Jillianne Smith (Dennis LaCasse), nephew Alex Smith (Ashley) and their families. Laura's absence will be deeply felt by everyone in her large, extended family.

Laura was an extraordinary educator in the Newton Public Schools for more than twenty-five years. She had a deep passion and talent for teaching and learning. She believed in the power of education to transform lives. She had the unique ability to connect with her students, inspiring them to reach their full potential, and instilling in them a love for learning that will last a lifetime. Laura's impact as an educator will be remembered by all those whose lives she touched.

Laura's radiant spirit, infectious laughter and unwavering love will forever be etched in our hearts. She leaves behind a legacy of strength, compassion and resilience that will continue to inspire us all. Her memory will live on through her daughters, partner, family, students, friends and all who are fortunate enough to have known Laura.

Laura was very intentional about her wishes to have a celebration of her life for her daughters. This Celebration of Laura's life will be held on Saturday September 9th, 2023 at 1:00 PM at Stonehurst, the Robert Treat Paine Estate, 100 Robert Treat Paine Dr, Waltham, MA 02452. Please come dressed in cheerful attire and you are welcome to bring a printed story, photo, memory or tribute as a keepsake for Laura's daughters. In lieu of flowers, Laura's family kindly requests that donations be made to Mass General Cancer Center at Newton-Wellesley in Laura's honor. giving.nwh.org/mgccatnwh