Leona Janice Lauster of Lyons, New York, passed away on July 25, 2024, at 76.  She was born in Rochester, New York to the late Carl and Loretta Diehl Culver. She is pre-deceased by Adele Culver, Pam Silk Culver, and father-in-law Donald Lauster.

She is survived by her beloved husband of 54 years, Jef Lauster; son Bradley Lauster (Jeeyun); daughter Adele Fetter (Aaron); grandchildren, Emily and Samantha; siblings, April Culver, Brian Culver, Susan Culver Carrin, Brent Culver (Georgia), and Clark Culver (Kim); mother-in-law, Dorothy Lauster; sisters-in-law, Tracy Lauster Rankert (Robert), Nancy Lauster Young (John), and brother-in-law, Al Lauster; 17 beloved nieces and nephews; 11 great nieces and nephews; and one great-great niece.

Leona was a 1966 graduate of Savannah High School, an avid Girl Scout, and an enthusiastic band member.  She received a degree in outdoor recreation from SUNY at Cortland, N.Y.  Nonie excelled in archery and played with the Cortland Orchestra (flute).  After college she provided nature programs for the state of New York and once again became active in Girl Scouting, as a leader.  The Lyons Library was her workplace for many years, where she could share her love for books and nature.  She was a devoted birder, volunteering at the Montezuma Audobon Center and a member of the Eaton Birding Society.  In her profile for the society, they remarked that Leona was quiet and humble but loved all things about Mother Nature and was always willing to share her knowledge.

In memory of Leona, donations would be appreciated for:

Laurel House, 224 Fair Street, Newark, NY 14513

Montezuma Audobon Center, NY Rt. 89, Savannah, NY 13146

Eaton Birding Society, 16 Mumford St., Seneca Falls, NY 13148

To share a special memory please visit www.murphyfuneralservices.com.