Janie Guzzetta

Janie was married to the love of her life, Rick, for 51 beautiful years. Their story began as young adults working as checkout clerks at Lucky Grocery Stores—never imagining that a simple meeting in the aisles would grow into a lifetime of love, laughter, and devotion. Together, they built a home rooted in faith, commitment, and deep affection for one another.

Janie and Rick were blessed with two children, Heather (Rick) and Ryan (Gina), who were the pride of her life. Her joy only multiplied with the arrival of her seven beloved grandchildren: Joshua, Zachary, Noah (Crista), Marissa, Jonah (Sadie), Rocco, and Blaize. Janie was also eagerly awaiting the arrival of her first great-grandson, due in May 2026—a milestone she spoke of with great excitement and hope.

Family was Janie’s greatest treasure. She had a gift for making every occasion special, whether big or small. Holidays, birthdays, and everyday moments were infused with her warmth, thoughtfulness, and attention to detail. She loved hosting gatherings and serving others through meals prepared in her home—welcoming everyone with open arms, from her children’s friends during their teenage years to extended family and friends gathered around her table.

Janie lived a life centered on others. The little things mattered to her, and she found joy in making people feel seen and loved. One of her favorite sayings was, “Look at those trees,” which came from a stressful car ride during a family vacation to Silver Creek, New York. It became her gentle way of shifting the mood—an invitation to pause, breathe, and focus on the simpler, beautiful things in front of us. She was known for sending cards to brighten someone’s day, to celebrate milestones, or to offer comfort during difficult seasons. Janie also had a deep love for travel and thoughtfully planned unforgettable vacations for her family. From Silver Creek, New York to Disneyland, cruises to Alaska, the Mediterranean, Mexico, and the Caribbean, she delighted in creating shared memories. Her most beloved place of all was Maui, which held a special place in her heart. Her kindness was quiet but constant, and her presence made people feel at home.

Janie will be remembered for her generous heart, her unwavering love for her family, and the way she lived each day with grace and purpose.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Vi and Frank Zagar, and her brother Terry. She is survived by her sister Susan; brothers Patrick and Chris; sister-in-law Phyllis; and brother-in-law Gary. Janie was also deeply loved by her many nieces and nephews. Though she will be deeply missed, her legacy of love continues in the lives of all who were blessed to know her.

Services

A Wake and Rosary will be held on Thursday, January 29, 2026, at Chapel of the Chimes, 7924 N. 59th Ave., Glendale, AZ, with visitation from 5:00–7:00 p.m. and the Rosary beginning at 7:00 p.m.

A Catholic Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Friday, January 30, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. at St. Elizabeth Seton Church, 9728 W. Palmeras Dr., Sun City, AZ, followed by interment at Phoenix Memorial Park, 200 W. Beardsley Rd., Phoenix, AZ.

In true Janie spirit, family and friends are invited to a celebration of her life on Friday, January 30, following the services. Address details will be shared at the services.

In Lieu of Flowers

Janie was a faithful supporter of St. Vincent de Paul through St. Elizabeth Seton Church, a charity close to her heart that reflected her lifelong commitment to serving others; in lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in her memory to St. Vincent de Paul through St. Elizabeth Seton Church.