HARTWICK - Laura Jane Seeley, who was born to George and Mary Seeley on Feb. 1, 1984, in Winchester, Virginia, and brought home to join her excited 4-year old sister, Kate S. Seeley, bringing joy to the entire household, passed away unexpectedly on Aug. 23, 2023.

Laura Jane Seeley, 39, of Hartwick, died at Albany Medical Center as a result of a tragic car accident near Bennington, Vermont.

As an organ donor, Laura gave five recipients "The Gift of Life."

Laura is survived by her two beautiful daughters, Ava Lee Brashear, 11, and Frankie Bella Novak, 2; loving partner, Frank V. Novak III; parents, George Seeley and Mary Klein; sister, Kate S. Seeley; and nephew, Jack Riley Wheeler Seeley. Laura is also survived by many loving aunts, uncles, cousins, extended family and friends, who all meant much to her.

A student at Cooperstown Central School from kindergarten through 12th grade, Laura thrived in the classroom. An avid athlete, she participated in cross-country running, track and field, swim team, soccer, and field hockey.

One summer, Laura was a lifeguard at Three Mile Point on Otsego Lake.

Laura studied child development and family studies at Syracuse University. She also competed as a member of the Syracuse Women's crew team.

A motivated person, Laura's administrative skills led her to such occupations as project administrator at William H. Lane Incorporated, community outreach specialist at Bassett Healthcare, residential sociotherapist at Hillside Children's Center, clinical outreach coordinator at Excellus BlueCross BlueShield, server at Alex's World Bistro and deli/food service clerk at Price Chopper.

Laura was a devoted mother and spent a great deal of time teaching her children the joys of life as well as answering the tough questions.

Laura was an avid gardener, homemaker, blueberry-picker, applesauce maker, runner, and downhill skier. She played the piano and loved art, which she shared with her daughters. Laura felt at home in nature and was always ready to take a hike, go for a swim, or build a snowman.

Laura Jane was a beautiful person inside and out and will be missed by many.

Calling hours will be from 4:30 to 7 p.m., Friday, Sept. 29, at Connell Dow & Deysenroth Funeral Home at 82 Chestnut St. in Cooperstown.

A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m., Saturday, Sept. 30, at Christ Episcopal Church at 46 River Street in Cooperstown.

Laura's ashes will be spread by the family privately on beloved acreage known to the family as "The Property" in Pierstown.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions to a college fund for Laura's daughters, Ava and Frankie, may be sent c/o Frank V. Novak III to 343 Goddards Road, Hartwick, NY 13348.