Janet Kay Lafferty

Janet Lafferty May 26, 1940 – May 24, 2026

Janet Lafferty passed away peacefully at her home on May 24, 2026, two days before her 86th birthday. Born in Topeka, Kansas to Richard V. and Irma Barnett, she attended Potwin Grade School and graduated with honors from Topeka High School in 1958, earning a scholarship to Washburn University.

Janet worked for KP&L, Potwin Presbyterian Church, Swan's Formal Wear and Commercial Insurance Corporation until her retirement.

She married Don Lafferty on March 7, 1959, and built a life beside him full of gratitude, tenderness, generosity, and devotion. She cherished tennis, bowling, books, culture, and the company of her many friends. Above all else, she loved her family.

She is survived by her sister Patty Brown of Oskaloosa; her brother Ricky Barnett of Topeka; her daughter Kathy Lafferty of Lawrence; her grandson Benjamin Bartels of St. Louis; and her beloved husband, Don, of Topeka.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Potwin Presbyterian Church, 400 SW Washburn Ave, Topeka, KS 66606.