Janet M. Fletcher, lifelong Walton resident, passed away on January 31, 2008 at the home of her daughter Marilyn and son-in-law Jon Armstrong, where she had resided in recent years.

Janet was born on February 29, 1928 in Walton. She was a leap year baby, and often joked about how "young" she was. She was the oldest daughter of Donald and Maude Lambrecht MacGibbon – one of 10 children.

Janet graduated from Walton High School and Albany Business College. She worked as a bookkeeper for a while. On October 29, 1949, she married Richard E. Fletcher, who predeceased her in 1987. After their marriage, Janet and Richard went into partnership with Richard's parents on their large dairy farm, which they later purchased. On that farm they raised eight children, with a large dose of love and a lot of hard work.

Janet had a generous heart. Her children's friends, the farm employees and indeed, all visitors were quickly welcomed into her home and made to feel comfortable. She loved to sit and talk with others, knowing that work could wait. Mealtime, with a promise of Janet's delicious home cooking, was something to look forward to. No one went away from her table hungry. Her grandchildren and great-grandchildren were her pride and joy. In addition to her own large brood, she often babysat for the children of others.

Survivors include her children, Gordon (Karin) Fletcher, Linda (Bill) Scott, Marilyn (Jon) Armstrong, Rolyn (Terri) Fletcher, Kirby (Robin) Fletcher, Chris (Nick) LaTourette, Lauren Fletcher, and Marcia (Patrick) Hanley. All except the LaTourettes, who reside in Fort Myers, Florida, live in Walton. Also surviving are three of Janet's brothers -- Gerry (Eleanor) MacGibbon, Bob (Betty) MacGibbon, and Clyde MacGibbon, and her sister Alta Holley, as well as grandchildren Heather Smith, Amanda Fletcher, Karena Trimbell, Chad Scott, Jami Aubin, Heith Armstrong, Camiel and Kirk Fletcher, Kirby Jay, Richard and Bridgette Fletcher, Brennan and Blake LaTourette, Dexter Backus, and Sarah, Patrick and Phillip Hanley; nine great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews. Four brothers -- John, Glenn, Richard and Raymond MacGibbon, and one sister -- Jean Musson predeceased her, as did her grandson Jeremy Fletcher.

Memorial contributions in memory of Janet M. Fletcher may be made to Catskill Area Hospice and Palliative Care Inc., One Birchwood Drive, Oneonta, New York 13820. There will be no funeral service or calling hours. A graveside service will be held in the spring.