Harriet B. Olsen Laury

Harriet Bessie Olsen Laury passed away peacefully at home on May 26, 2025, surrounded by her loving family. She was 100 years old. Her final moments were marked by warmth, prayer, and the quiet presence of those who cherished her most. Born on September 24, 1924, Harriet lived a long and vibrant life devoted to her family, faith, and community. She was married to the love of her life, George Benjamin Laury, for nearly 75 years. Together, they raised five children: Lynda Davis (Barry), Laraine Labriola (Bill), Leah Bucolo (John), Ben Laury (Kathy), and Ted Laury (Chris). Her family was her joy, her pride, and her greatest legacy. In addition, she is also survived by sixteen grandchildren and forty-two great-grandchildren.. At the age of 47, Harriet chose to pursue a career in nursing. She graduated from Cumberland County College in 1972 and went on to care for others with compassion and strength. She worked at Cumberland Manor, where she helped those facing addiction, and later served the Vineland community as a school nurse, roles in which she brought comfort, steadiness, and kindness to all she encountered. Harriet was wise, deeply honest, and wonderfully spirited. Those who knew her remember her generous heart, thrifty ways, and her unmistakable sense of humor. Her commitment to her faith was unwavering. Harriet was a lifelong member of the Elmer United Methodist Church, where she attended faithfully for over 100 years. Her love for her church was deep, and her service, devotion, and example touched generations. After retiring from nursing at the age of 91, Harriet found new joy volunteering at a local thrift store alongside her daughters. She loved the purpose it gave her-and even more, she cherished the time spent hunting for treasures, chatting with customers, and simply being together. It was one of the places where her joy and connection with family truly came to life. In addition, Harriet volunteered her time at the Ranch Hope for Boys, a mission-driven organization she believed in deeply. Her heart for service extended to every season of her life. She especially cherished time with her daughters, from Saturday yard sales to weekend getaways in Ocean City. Harriet had a sparkle to her-literally and figuratively. She loved sparkly bracelets, pearls, and anything that made her feel joyful. In her later years, she would often exclaim "Yippee!" or "Whoo-hoo!" when something made her happy. She adored flowers, looked forward to spring, and always appreciated the gardenias brought by Laraine. Each year, she gifted a hanging basket for a birthday small but heartfelt tradition that showed her love. She took great pride in her children's lives: Lynda's warm hospitality, Laraine's evening walks to enjoy a sunset by the bay, Leah's generous heart, Ben's strong work ethic, and Ted's kind and helpful support. She loved hearing about her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, attending their games, and keeping up with all their adventures. After losing Ben, Harriet often said, "It's no fun living alone." Though she carried on with grace, her heart never stopped longing for him. We now take comfort knowing they are reunited in heaven. Harriet is predeceased by her husband, George Benjamin Laury; her parents, Louella and Henry Olsen; her sister, Naomi Morley; and her great-grandson, Hunter Watterson. She was not only a mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother but also a friend to many, a quiet encourager, and a woman of steady faith. She will be remembered for her warmth, her wit, her stories, and the deep love she poured into her family. She was a gift, and for those of us who had the honor of knowing her, we will be forever grateful. Services will be held on Monday, June 2, 2025, at the Olivet Church, 933 Centerton Rd., Pittsgrove, NJ 08318. The Memorial Visitation will begin at 6 PM, with the service following at 7 PM. Burial is private and at the convenience of the family. adamsfuneralhome.org

Harriet B. Olsen Laury

May 26, 2025

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Harriet B. Olsen Laury

May 26, 2025

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