Janet Ann Casillas

April 6, 1941 – October 20, 2025

Janet Ann Casillas, 84, of Phoenix, Arizona, passed away peacefully on October 20, 2025, surrounded by family.

Born in Seattle, Washington, on April 6, 1941, Janet was a proud graduate of Queen Anne High School, now a historic city landmark overlooking the Puget Sound. It was in New York City, at age 20, that Janet met the love of her life, Robert, while both worked for Trans World Airlines—she as a spirited flight attendant and he in gate operations. Their shared sense of adventure soon became a lifelong journey together. They married in 1964 at St. Anne’s Church in Seattle and later made their home in Phoenix, where they raised their two children.

Janet had a special gift for connecting with people and devoted many years as a special education teacher’s aide in the Paradise Valley School District. Her warmth, humor, and compassion made her beloved by students and colleagues alike. She found joy in life’s simple pleasures—spending time with dear friends and family, volunteering at church, indulging in a nightly bowl of ice cream, and doting on her grandchildren and dog, Sammie.

A lifelong learner and avid reader, Janet cherished literature, especially Robert Frost’s “The Road Not Taken,” which reflected her adventurous spirit. She will be remembered for her devotion to God and family, her love of the sea, her unwavering strength, and the way she made every person feel seen and valued.

Janet was preceded in death by her parents, Eugene and Jean Gould, and her brother, Cary Gould. She is survived by her husband of 61 years, Robert; their children, Chris (Susan) and Courtney (Shawn); and grandchildren Justin, Jason, Emma, and Ethan. She is also lovingly remembered by many dear friends and members of her St. Joseph’s Catholic Church community, who were like extended family and shared in her faith, laughter, and love.

Funeral services will be held Friday, November 21, 2025, at 11 a.m. at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Phoenix. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Vincent de Paul, a charity close to Janet’s heart that reflects her lifelong commitment to helping others.

“Two roads diverged in a wood, and I—

I took the one less traveled by,

And that has made all the difference.” —Robert Frost