Janis D. Kamp

She was born on November 26, 1930 in Effingham, Illinois, to the late Dr. Howard B. Dillman and Laferne Deabler Dillman. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by husband, Dr. William T. “Bill” Kamp; daughter, Mary Kamp Senne; sisters, Patricia Perry and Linda Dillman; and granddaughter, Mary Anna Woods.

Janis grew up in southern Illinois and spent the majority of her youth experiencing the advantages of living in a small tight knit community. She was very involved in school and especially enjoyed participating in plays and helping with the school newspaper.

Upon completion of secondary school, Janis attended Washington University in St. Louis, MO and obtained a degree in education. She taught elementary school in St. Louis and was proud to have instructed over 50 students each year in her classroom. Following this accomplishment, she and her family moved to her home town of Flora, Illinois, where she derived satisfaction from raising her children in a small town community. She returned to teaching in the l960s instructing high school students in English as well as Drama.

After moving to Galesburg, Illinois in the early l970s, Janis not only continued her dedication to her family and her children’s many activities, but also opened an antique doll shop called Yesterday’s Child Dolls. She was a local expert in all things dolls; repairing, identifying, appraising and traveling the world to find one-of-a-kind dolls. Her knowledge and collection of dolls was well-known and admired by many across the country.

In the l990’s Janis and Bill retired to Pinehurst, NC. During retirement they traveled the world and also hosted many gatherings and parties, still fondly remembered by family and friends. Janis particularly relished entertaining her grandchildren when they came for visits. These wonderful stays provided each of them with cherished memories of their grandmother.

Janis loved to travel, play bridge, read, was a history buff, and also a trivia expert. She was fiercely loyal and protective of both her friends and family. She will be remembered for her selflessness, her sharp wit, and her strong will. Janis was a survivor.

Left to carry on her traits and remember her with a smile are her three children, Sarah Kamp Krauser (Kent), William Taylor Kamp Jr. (Amy), Laura Kamp Woods (Rick); nine grandchildren, Kellen Woods (Mackenzie), Will Kamp III (Sarah), Rebecca Woods, Jennie Krauser, Madison Krauser, T. Keating Krauser, Connor Kamp, Aidan Kamp, Chloe Kamp; three great-grandchildren, Isabella Doran, Sullivan Woods, Mila Woods; and five special nieces and nephews.

Janis Kamp’s celebration of life and internment will be in Pinehurst, NC on August 4th, 2023.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.howemortuary.com for the Kamp family.