Janet Ann Manes

Janet Manes passed away peacefully on April 30, at the age of 84. While the past several years were marked by various health challenges, she remained remarkably resilient and devoted to her faith until her last breath.

The eldest daughter of Frank and Eleanor Dougherty, Janet was raised in the Philadelphia suburbs, where most of her mother’s large family also resided. One of her fondest memories growing up were of regular visits to the Jersey shore with her family, aunts, uncles, and numerous cousins.

Janet is survived by her sister, Bernadette, former spouse Harold, and their three children, Angel (Greg), Kristen (Len), and Hal (Melanie); five grandchildren, Kristen (JJ), Valerie (Nick), Ludamae, Natalie and Nathan; and seven great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husbands, Jim and Charles; brothers, Frank and Harry; and her parents.

She pursued her bachelor’s and law degree later in life and spent several years as an assistant special master for the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals as well as a private attorney before retiring.

Janet had many passions. For a time, she was an avid quilter, creating numerous one-of-a-kind pieces for family members and friends. She loved to watch murder mysteries and any show about the law, ranging from courtroom dramas to Judge Judy. She had a knack for making friends wherever she went. Many were friends she had known for decades and with whom she remained close until the very end.

She also loved to travel and visit her relatives on the east coast. Family was very important to her, and she devoted a lot of her time to keeping in touch with extended family across the miles.

Janet was happiest when surrounded by her immediate family and enjoyed hosting holidays and frequent BBQs. It was particularly important to her to celebrate every family member's milestone birthday, a tradition her children will no doubt carry on in her honor.

Above all, Janet proudly proclaimed herself a child of God and professed her faith through life's trials and tribulations. She demonstrated her discipleship through her active involvement, alongside her second husband, Jim, in the Church on the Street ministry, a mission-based outreach for the homeless in Phoenix. This steadfast faith may be what she is most remembered for.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, May 9, at 3:30 p.m., at Shadow Mountain Mortuary, 2350 E. Greenway Rd in Phoenix. We encourage attendees to wear Janet’s favorite color, purple, for this celebration of life.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to either Church on the Street-Phoenix (cotsphoenix.org) or Christian Family Care (cfcare.org).