Jane Libby, 84, of Haverhill, died unexpectedly at her home on Friday, Dec. 28.
She was a wonderful woman, fiercely independent, very private and dedicated to her work, family and friends. She was much loved and will be sorely missed. She was born in Foxboro, the only child of the late Carl and Esther (Holton) Libby. Educated in the Shelburne school system, Libby went on to earn her bachelor’s degree in English from Bates College.
For over 40 years, Libby was employed as an editor, specializing in history and education, for Houghton-Mifflin, Boston, from where she retired.
A Haverhill resident for over 30 years, she enjoyed reading, gardening, ceramics, nature and archeology. Her love of archeology allowed her to travel extensively to places such as Central America, Mexico, China and New Mexico. It also brought her together with her special companion Richard (Scotty) MacNeich who predeceased her.
Her survivors include several cousins and their families, all of whom she has left many fond memories.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend her calling hours on Saturday afternoon, Jan. 5, from 2-4 p.m. at the H.L. Farmer & Sons Funeral Home, 106 Summer St., Haverhill. Funeral services and burial will be private and at the convenience of the family.
Contributions in her memory may be made to Smithsonian National Museum of the American Indian at MRC 590, Washington, DC 20560-0590; Soaring Eagle Public Charity at PO Box 879, Billings MT 59103; The Nature Conservancy at 4245 N Fairfax DR, Suite 100, Arlington, VA 22203; Essex Art Center at 56 Island St, Lawrence, MA 01840; the NRDC at 40 West 20th St, NY, NY 10011; Defenders of Wildlife at 1130 17th St NW, Washington, DC 20077; and the WWF at 1250 24th ST NE, Washington, DC 20037 all of which are charities Libby supported for many years.