Phyllis D. Janes' Obituary
Phyllis Janes (1945-2024)
Muskegon lost a kind and caring soul with the passing of Phyllis Janes. Phyllis went home to Jesus on May 21, 2024. Her loving family and many friends held vigil at her bedside in the weeks preceding her death. This precious time allowed for heartfelt goodbyes. Phyllis passed away peacefully.
A Life Devoted to Care
Phyllis was born in Grand Haven on June 6, 1945, to Oscar and Margaret Strickler. Phyllis graduated from Grand Haven High School in 1963 and Hackley Nursing School in 1966. Her passion for caring for others became the cornerstone of her life. In 1966, she married Roy Janes, and together they built a beautiful family. Their biological children were joined by countless others who found a loving home under their care as foster parents. Phyllis's compassion extended beyond family. She dedicated herself to caring for children, the disabled, and the elderly, volunteering for many years with Harbor Hospice. Everyone who knew Phyllis cherished her infectious giggle and unwavering kindness. Family time was precious to her, especially with her grandchildren. Phyllis loved knitting, swimming, camping, and creating memories with her many friends. Many will fondly remember her teaching them to knit or swim.
A Pillar of Faith and Community
Phyllis was a devoted member of Bethel Baptist Church, where she actively shared her faith and brought many to know Jesus.
Forever Loved
Phyllis will be lovingly remembered by her children: Deborah (Steve) Broemer, Laurie (Dave) Chartrand, Jim (Jennifer) Janes, Jeff Janes, Heidi Vanderstelt, and Angie (Brad) Smith; her grandchildren, who will forever cherish the memories she made with them: Zac Chartrand, Chris Chartrand, Brittany (Josiah) Mendheim, Alyssa Chartrand, Lexi Chartrand, Madeline Gabrielle, Justin (Aimee) Clish, Kyle (Trinity) Clish, Seth Shavalier, Brooke Janes, Summer (Trent) Carlson, Ava Janes, Austin Broemer, Jonah Broemer; and her great-grandchildren: Ezreala Clish, Abe Clish, Jude Clish, Bentley Welch, Ella Clish, and Mason Clish; siblings: Jim Strickler, Delores (Dick) Durkee, Blanche (Larry) Nickels, Walter Strickler, and Marilyn Bilek; and many nieces and nephews, many cherished friends, and countless others whose lives she touched. Phyllis was preceded in death by her husband Roy, her parents, and brother, Richard Strickler.
A Celebration of Life
A Memorial Service will be taking place for Phyllis at 11:00 AM on Friday, May 24, 2024, at Bethel Baptist Church, 1066 Byron Rd, Norton Shores, MI, 49441. A Memorial Visitation will be taking place at the church from 4:00 PM -7:00 PM on Thursday, May 23, as well as an hour prior to the service on Friday. In lieu of flowers, the family welcomes donations either to Hospice of Michigan, who provided exceptional care to Phyllis and her family during the final days, or to Bethel Baptist Church. Arrangements by The Lee Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 6291 Harvey St, Norton Shores, MI, 49444. Please sign the family’s online guestbook and share memories at sytsemafh.com
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