Obituary of Laurene M. Abbott

Laurene Abbott 87, of Belvidere, NJ passed away on Saturday, February 7, 2026.

Born on October 13, 1938, she was the daughter of the late Ruth Thomas and Edward Leidig. She was the loving wife of the late Harold Abbott. Together they celebrated 63 years of marriage.

Laurene’s greatest legacy was found in the lives of the children she fostered. A dedicated foster mother, she opened her heart and home with children with special needs. She spent weekends at garage sales, spotting a rare rookie card or a vintage doll. When she wasn’t at garage sales you could find her at the casino, ready for the next big jackpot.

Surviving is her sister, Ruth LaPenna, along with her children Lois VanScoten and husband Ronald, Harold Abbott and wife Deborah, Vicki Gonzalez and Melissa Abbott; grandchildren Ronnie VanScoten and wife Heather, Grant VanScoten and wife Carol, Mary Clairmont and husband James, Melanie Conarroe and husband Cameron, Andrew Mamrak and wife Amanda, Nicholas Mamrak and wife Katherine, Heather Garatty and husband Mike, Chadd Groff, Kelsey DiVittorio and husband Zeb; great grandchildren Autumn, Matthew, Leo, Jessie, Ezra, Christian, Jenna, Grant Jr., Madison, James, Maxwell, and Rhys; great-great-grandchildren Clayton and Olivia.

Laurene was predeceased by sons Nicky and Richie.   

At Laurene's request, graveside services will be held 11:00 am, Wednesday, April 29th at St. Patrick Cemetery in Belvidere.