Jane Booth

Jan 10, 1946 -

Jul 25, 2026

Jane Frances Booth, lovingly known as Jill her entire life, passed away peacefully on July 25, 2026, in Anchorage, Alaska, at the age of 80.

Jill was born Jane Frances Lakin on Jan. 10, 1946, in Pendleton, Ore., and grew up in Spokane, Wash. She attended the University of Washington, where she earned a Bachelor of Science degree in medical technology.

Jill's love of music played an important role in her life and ultimately led her to the love of her life. She met Greg Booth at a tavern in Seattle, Wash., while he was on tour with his band. The two fell in love and were married for nearly 48 years.

In 1974, Jill and Greg took a trip to Alaska looking for adventure. They fell in love with the state and decided to make it their home. What began as an adventure became a lifetime of memories, family, and a deep love for Alaska.

Jill first worked as a medical technologist at Humana Hospital, where she spent 15 years. She then began an accomplished 23-year career with the Alaska State Crime Detection Laboratory as a forensic scientist specializing in toxicology. Her work took her all over Alaska, where she testified in court as an expert witness in drug prosecution cases. Jill was dedicated to her work and took great pride in the important role she played in the justice system. She retired after 23 years with the Crime Lab.

While Jill accomplished much in her professional life, her greatest joy was her family.

She was known for her sweet and loving nature, her devotion to her family and pets, and the special joy she found in being a grandmother. She treasured her time with her grandchildren and delighted in watching them grow.

Jill loved music, gardening and spending time outdoors. She had a deep appreciation for the beauty of Alaska and enjoyed being outside whenever she could. She brought warmth and kindness to the people and animals around her and will be remembered for her gentle spirit, generous heart, and unwavering love for her family.

Jill is survived by her beloved husband, Greg Booth; daughter, Mandy Booth King and husband Andy King; son, Dan Booth and wife Amanda Kerr; four grandchildren, Warren and Hazel King, and Martin and Hannah Booth; and brother, Jim Lakin of Bonney Lake, Wash. She also leaves behind many extended family members and friends whose lives were touched by her kindness.

Jill was preceded in death by her brothers, Bill Lakin and Wayne Lakin.

Jill will be deeply missed and forever loved. Her family will carry her memory with them—in the music she loved, the Alaska she cherished, the gardens she tended, and most of all, in the love she gave so freely to those around her.