Sara-Jane (Wright) Lawrence passed away quietly in Springfield, Massachusetts, on April 17, 2026. Her son, Stephen, was with her when she died.

Sara was born on August 27, 1944, in Kitchener, Ontario to Gordon and Velma (Blackmore) Wright. Gordon’s job moved them to the U.S..

She graduated from Wheaton High School in 1962 and then attended the College of Wooster, Ohio, where she met her future husband, Peter Lawrence and many lifelong friends.

Sara and her husband moved to Columbus, Ohio, where their son, Stephen, was born and later to Lexington, Kentucky, where their daughter, Kaddee, was born.

In 1968, the family moved to Hawaii, where they lived until 1970. Sara and the children then moved to Fairhaven, Massachusetts, where they lived until the children both graduated from high school.

Sara went on to a successful early career in media sales in Washington D.C., then transitioned into educational planned giving in New Hampshire and Massachusetts. After retirement she continued to give back to her community by serving on several boards and volunteering for New England Public Media.

Sara traveled extensively, far, and wide. Most of all she enjoyed surrounding herself with loved ones. She spent as much time as possible with her extended family and friends in as many beautiful places as she could.

She was an elemental force, a moral mentor, a reliable friend, and a good human.

She is survived by her son Steve, daughter Kaddee, granddaughter Mackenzie and her large extended family and circle of friends, all of whom will miss her terribly.

In lieu of flowers please consider donating to New England Public Media (nepm.org).

The O’Brien Family Funeral Home in South Hadley has been entrusted with the arrangements. For more information or to make online condolences please go to obrienfamilyfh.com.