Janet Gail Onorato

Born on July 15, 1937, in New Albany, Indiana, Jan grew up with strong family values, a vibrant spirit, and a deep faith that would guide her throughout her life. In 1957, Jan met the love of her life, Francis “Frank” Robert Onorato, in her hometown of New Albany. The two married on February 1, 1958, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, beginning a beautiful partnership that would span over 60 years.

Jan was truly extraordinary. She was an incredible cook, gracious hostess, chauffeur, caterer, caregiver, golfer, tennis player, faithful friend, loving sister, and devoted servant of Christ. Her energy seemed boundless, and her heart knew no limits. Together, Jan and Frank raised their five children, each born in a different state as their life journey took them across the country—from Indiana to Pennsylvania, Connecticut, Maryland, Texas, Tennessee, and Florida. Jan embraced each new place with open arms, making lasting friendships everywhere she went. Jan and Frank shared a loving, traditional marriage, he the provider, she the heart of the home. Jan lovingly raised their children with warmth and strong values. When the time came for her to step into the workforce, Jan did so with the same fierce dedication and tireless work ethic that defined her role as a mother. In the fast-paced and demanding world of retail, she embraced every challenge, holding numerous roles and earning admiration and respect from all who worked alongside her. Jan’s life was a testament to quiet strength, deep love, and a commitment to giving her very best—in everything she did.

As a long-time member of St. Cecilia Catholic Church, Jan served faithfully as an Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion, usher and supported the Knights of Columbus during their annual Lenten Fish Fry. She was active in Bible study and especially cherished her time volunteering at The Gathering Place, where she delighted “Care Partners” with her joyful spirit and imaginative costumes that matched each day’s theme.

Jan also gave generously of her time to her community, serving as President of the Briargrove Women’s Club for several years. Among her many passions, one of Jan’s greatest joys was Christmas. Each year, she and Frank transformed their home—inside and out—into a holiday wonderland, creating magical memories for their children, grandchildren, and friends.

Jan is survived by her loving children:

Theresa “Terry” McBride and husband Olin Beal Barnes III, Daughter-in-law Angela Rhea Onorato, John Allen Onorato and wife Joy Timm Onorato, Richard Anthony Onorato and wife Candace Sams Onorato, Michael Wayne Onorato and wife Stephanie Marie Onorato.

She leaves behind a cherished legacy in her nineteen grandchildren and eleven great-grandchildren, as well as her beloved sisters, Jacqueline “Jackie” Kruer and husband Patrick Kruer, and Karen Forrester and husband Michael Forrester.

Jan was preceded in death by her devoted husband Frank Onorato, her beloved son William “Bill” Robert Onorato, and her son-in-law Robert “Bob” Raymond McBride, Jr. And her parents Charles Edwin Kamer and Thelma May Ella (Dyer) Kamer, sisters Carole Anne Botkins, Mary Lynne Deason and brothers Glen Edwin Kamer, Charles Richard “Butch” Kamer and John Herbert Kamer.

The Onorato family invites friends and loved ones to celebrate Jan’s life with a Vigil Service on Wednesday, September 3, 2025, at 7:00 p.m. at St. Maximilian Kolbe Church, 10135 West Road, Houston, Texas, Funeral Mass on Thursday, September 4, 2025, at 10:30 a.m., St. Cecilia Catholic Church, located at 11720 Joan of Arc Drive, Houston, Texas.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to St. Cecilia Catholic Church in loving memory of Janet Onorato.

Jan’s faith, joy, and devotion to family will live on through all who were blessed to know her. We are grateful for the remarkable caregivers, friends and supporters whose compassion, patience and presence offered comfort not only to her but to her family as well. A heartfelt thank you to Mom’s hospice nurse, Edwin, for his gentle care and compassion. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.