Janet G. Howard, age 86 , formerly of Ottawa, passed away on May 8, 2022.  Janet was born January 1, 1936, in Stillwater, Oklahoma.  She is preceded in death by her parents Roy and Alma Edwards, brothers Ernest, Roy Gerald, and Mike, and former husband Patrick Howard.  She is survived by her sister Patricia Mason of Topeka, brother Tommy Edwards of Wichita, three children Lynda (Duane) Falley of Victoria, Jeanie Shackelford of Andover, and Jerry (Laurie) Howard of Medford Oregon, along with many nieces, nephews, grandchildren, and great grandchildren.  Janet was married to Patrick Howard for over 30 years, and together they worked hard and lived by example to be reliable, faithful, and loving parents in raising their three children the best they could.  Although Patrick and Janet eventually divorced, they remained good friends and Janet valued her friendship with Patrick's wife, Penny.  Janet loved all her family dearly and protected her family with all her strength.  Her legacy will live on in the hearts of everyone she knew.

J anet was a role model for living life on her own terms with no apology for acting and speaking as she saw fit.  She was a fierce defender of anyone disadvantaged, and she was unafraid to fight for fairness and for herself.  Janet was always ready to give advice, whether you asked for it or not, because she cared.  She would always lend a helping hand, even if it meant giving up her last dollar.   Everyone always knew where Janet stood when it came to God, friends, pets, and of course, fishing – all of which she cherished.  Janet blessed everyone with her unconditional and honest love.

T he Howard family wishes to thank the staff at Victoria Falls Skilled Nursing Facility, Wheat State Manor, and Traditions Health (formerly Serenity Hospice) for Janet's care.  Janet cherished the deep friendships she developed with staff and the love and care she received.  Her family is eternally grateful for all staff and especially for Cinnamon, Taylor, Mary, Destiny, Sharde, Jamie, RJ, Tina, and DeeDee.

V isitation will be held Tuesday, May 17, from 3 pm to 5 pm at Heritage Funeral Home, Andover.  Visitation will also be available prior to funeral services at 10am on May 18 at Rock Creek Church of Christ, Ottawa.  Memorial gifts may be made to the Rock Creek Church of Christ.  Fond memories may be shared at www.heritageofandover.com.