Janet Russell Timmerman

Janet Russell Timmerman, age 70 of Columbia, passed away on December 18, 2022 after a lengthy illness. Janet is survived by her two children, William Bledsoe Timmerman III (April) and their children William Chase, Henry James and Harper Austin of Devon, Pennsylvania and Lucy Timmerman Underwood (Miles) and their children Catherine Emily and Everett William Christopher of Zurich, Switzerland. She is also survived by her aunt Martha Russell Hester of Albany, Georgia, her brother, Paul Thomas Russell Jr. (Sissy) of Kansas City, Missouri, a niece, Elizabeth Spears Russell and two nephews, Dr. Paul Thomas Russell III (Donna) and Griffith Blocker Russell.

Born in Albany Georgia to Dr. Paul Thomas and Lucille Skelton Russell, now deceased, Janet later moved to Charlotte, North Carolina where she completed her undergraduate studies in English at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. She then moved to Columbia where she received her Masters in Education at the University of South Carolina. As a member of the Junior League and active member of St. John’s Episcopal Church, Janet drew upon her talents as an excellent cook in editing and contributing to several cookbooks and service initiatives. While raising her family in Columbia, Janet began her teaching career at the newly created St. John Neumann School. She taught at Hammond School and in Richland District 2 elementary schools before returning to St. John Neumann where she remained a beloved educator until her retirement in 2014. She was admired by many for being smart, funny and having a big heart for children. Many remember her for her elementary school science lab where she brought scientific concepts to life through exploration and often played music in the classroom to encourage movement and fun. Janet was also known for deep love of reading, pets of all sorts, Duke basketball and travel. Whether it was learning to scuba dive, photography, or navigating the streets of Europe, she had a child’s sense of curiosity about the world and always showed great kindness and generosity to others wherever she went. Most of all, she adored her children, grandchildren as well as the many children she taught throughout her career.

The family would like to thank the excellent care teams at Wildwood Downs and the many friends who visited her and gave comfort. A celebration of Janet’s life will be planned at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to St. John’s Episcopal Church or a charity of one's choice.

Dunbar Funeral Home, Devine Street Chapel, is assisting the family. Memories may be shared at www.dunbarfunerals.com.