Janet Valerie Smith

Janet Valerie Walters Smith, 84, of Arenzville, died Thursday, December 12, 2024 at her home.

She was born February 14, 1940 in Chicago the daughter of Earl L. and Grace B. Hall Walters. She's been with Steven Allen Smith since 1975 and he resides in Arenzville.

She is also survived by four daughters Karen Blankenship of Beardstown, Kathie (husband Troy) Campbell of Beardstown, Julie Gaines (companion Chris) of Arenzville, and Stephanie Smith (companion Jim) of Arenzville; seven grandchildren Joshua (wife Amie), Benjamin (wife Weili), and Matthew Gossage, Hayden (wife Desiree) Upchurch, Alex (wife Deysi) Scharwark, and Brooklynn and Will Bateman; nine great-grandchildren and one arriving soon; a sister Earlene Paul of Arenzville; and a brother Jerry Walters of Jacksonville. She was preceded in death by her parents, a sister Donna Patton, a brother Donald Walters, grandson Adam Gaines in infancy, and a great granddaughter Freya Gossage in infancy.

Janet attended Chicago Ridge Schools and relocated to the Cass County area with her family. She dedicated over 20 years of her life to Cater Vend, serving meals and tending to vending machines for Oscar Mayer, Bohn Aluminum, Kraft, and Mobile. Her career culminated with a well-deserved retirement from Ayerco in Arenzville. In her retirement, she poured her heart into caring for her grandchildren, a role she cherished above all. Her artistic talents, particularly her oil painting, embroidery, and flower gardening, were a testament to her vibrant spirit and boundless creativity. Janet's love was a beacon to many, but her family was her greatest joy.

Funeral services will be held at 2 PM Tuesday, December 17, 2024 at Colwell Memorial Home in Beardstown. Burial will be in Arenzville North Cemetery. The family will meet with friends from one hour prior to the services at the memorial home on Tuesday.

Memorials have been suggested to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.

Condolences may be left online at www.cowlellmemorialhome.com or on Facebook at Colwell Memorial Home.