Beloved Children's Author Peggy Janousky Passes Away at 63

Beloved Children's Author Peggy Janousky Passes Away at 63

Peggy Dara Robbins Janousky, a cherished educator and beloved children’s author, passed away on August 13, 2025, at her home in Oviedo, Florida. She was 63 years old. Born on May 1, 1962, in Brooklyn, New York, Peggy was the daughter of Dr. Albert and Shirley Robbins. Her academic journey led her to Hofstra University, where she earned a master’s degree in education. This foundational knowledge propelled her into a fruitful career, inspiring her students from preschool to college. Her legacy as an educator resonates well beyond the classroom.

As a teacher and a passionate children’s author, she penned two picture books: “Move It, Miss Macintosh,” and “Invader from Mars: The Truth About Babies.” Her works showcase her quirky sense of humor and emotional depth, capturing the imaginations of young readers. The latter title holds an average rating of 3.74 on Goodreads, reflecting its appeal among audiences. Her literary contributions also found a place in three anthologies edited by her mentor, Lee Bennett Hopkins, enriching the landscape of children’s poetry with pieces in “Hanukkah Lights: Holiday Poetry,” “Valentine Hearts: Holiday Poetry,” and “Lullaby and Kisses Sweet: Poems to Love with Your Baby” (Heritage Florida).

Legacy in Writing and Teaching

Peggy’s writing is characterized by a delightful mix of subtlety and vibrancy, making it both accessible and enjoyable for children. Whether tackling complex emotions or entertaining young minds, she did it all with a gentle hand and a generous heart. In addition to her literary endeavors, Peggy showed an unwavering commitment to fostering animals, treating them with the same love and care she extended to her family. It’s this blend of compassion and creativity that defined her life.

Her impressive teaching career spanned various educational levels, where she not only imparted knowledge but also comforted and uplifted countless students. Peggy’s expertise also included international student affairs, special education, and parenting literacy, a testament to her diverse skill set and dedication to educational excellence. She is remembered fondly for her kindness and the cherished family traditions she upheld.

A Family Remembered

In her personal life, Peggy was a devoted wife to her husband of 38 years, Dr. Stuart Janousky, and a loving mother to her two sons, Joshua and Jeremy Janousky. Her family also included three dogs, Emma, Julia, and Gracey, who were treated as treasured family members. Following her passing, Peggy’s family expressed their desire for donations in her memory to No Kid Hungry, continuing her legacy of caring for others through their generous contributions.

Graveside services were held at Temple Beth El Cemetery in Fort Myers, Florida, officiated by Rabbi Bruce Diamond. Peggy’s memory, woven into the lives she touched through her writing and teaching, will continue to inspire future generations of readers and learners. As she leaves behind a treasure trove of stories and the warmth of her spirit, we are reminded of the impact one person can have in both literary and educational realms. Her stories will live on, nurturing the imaginations of children and encouraging them to embrace the world with joy.

Her approach to life’s complexities, not just in education but also in dealing with sensitive topics like death, may resonate with other creators who address these themes. Many authors, like those highlighted in various literature discussing grief and loss, have explored similar emotional landscapes. Works such as “The Fall of Freddie the Leaf” by Leo Buscaglia and “When Dinosaurs Die” by Laurie Krasny Brown guide young minds through understanding life and mortality, echoing Peggy’s intentions as a writer and teacher (PMC).

Peggy Dara Robbins Janousky’s life was a beautiful tapestry of love for family, compassion for animals, and an unwavering commitment to education. She will be profoundly missed but warmly remembered.