Janet McGowan

The family will be holding a 'Celebration of Life' for family and friends to gather and honor the amazing person that Janet was. This will take take place on Sunday, March 9th, 2025 at 1:00pm until 5:00pm at J. Rieger & Co. (2700 Guinotte Ave Kansas City MO 64120).

Janet Wilson McGowan, age 65, of Raytown, Missouri, passed away peacefully with close family at her side on February 5th at 9:05 PM. She was born in Kansas City, Missouri, to loving parents Robert and Gloria Wilson.

Janet bravely battled stage 4 breast cancer, first diagnosed in 2011, when she fought and overcame it. Then, on New Years Eve 2019, it returned. Doctors gave her three years to live, but if you knew Janet, you knew she was a fighter. True to her spirit, she defied the odds, outlasting that prognosis by over five years.

Janet is survived by her husband of 42 years, Dwight McGowan, her children, Mandi, Derek, and Megan, her sister, Julie, her daughter-in-law, Thao, son-in-laws, Dan & Ryan, and her beloved grandchildren, Emma, Tyson, Eva, Emilia, and Slade.

A Life Well-Lived

Janet’s story was so much more than the somber ending. She touched countless lives, earning the love and respect of everyone she met. She was the most generous person, constantly donating her time and money to those in need—often without telling anyone, because it was never about her, only about helping others. In the days since her passing, more stories of her quiet generosity have emerged, further proving how selfless and kind she truly was.

She had a passion for adventure, whether it was camping across the countryside, riding dirt bikes, or escaping to her favorite mountaintops in Colorado—her home away from home. She lived for the thrill of discovery and the joy of being surrounded by those she loved.

Janet’s love for learning was another defining trait. Dwight’s very first memory of her was seeing her at a high school lunch table, buried in her books, always striving for knowledge. That drive never faded—she earned her associate’s degree well before it became common and inspired those around her to better themselves. She had a passion for ceramics, plants, and the family of friends she cherished.

Professionally, Janet dedicated over 41 years to DST Systems, where she played an instrumental role in managing departments and shaping the company’s success.

A Legacy of Kindness

Janet wouldn’t want us to dwell on sadness—she would want us to remember the good times and find ways to carry her kindness forward.

If there’s one lesson we can all take from her life, it’s this:

• Live each day to the fullest.

• Be the best version of yourself.

• And, just like Janet, do something for someone in need—without expecting anything in return.

Her bright spirit made the world a better place, and we can all honor her by bringing that same light to others.

Janet’s love, generosity, and adventurous spirit will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.