She is survived by her daughter, Leslie Kimbel, of Athens, GA; her son, John Keirce Kimbel, Jr. and daughter-in-law, Terri Lynne, of Franklin, TN; her grandsons, John “Keirce” Kimbel III and Peyton Scott Kimbel; her sister, Judith Ann Martin, of Louisville, KY; and several nieces and nephews. “Momma Jane” also had a large heart and a close extended family consisting of her childhood friend Chris Mundt and Brenda Barrett, her close friend of many years, as well as her honorary children, Sharla Hanks Smith, Michele and Lee Moortson, and Sergio Ruano, and her grand dogs and cats, Tiki, Sophie, JB, and Layla.
She had a special group of friends called the “Ya Ya’s” who loved their monthly dinner meeting and celebrating birthdays and special holidays together. Janie also enjoyed her Saturday morning tennis group and social meetings at Panera’s. Everyone that knew her marveled at her free spirit, love for University of Georgia football, and horse racing—as well as her fidelity to her native Kentucky bourbon.
Janie was a graduate of Presentation Academy and Spaulding University and graduated with a Bachelor’s of Science degree in Nursing. She taught obstetrics at St. Mary’s and Elizabeth Hospital in Louisville, KY, before relocating to Athens, GA, where she became a dedicated registered nurse serving St. Mary’s hospital’s obstetrical unit as Director from 1963 until her retirement in June 2000. In May 1996 she was awarded “The Sister M. Antonette Excellence in Leadership Award” for outstanding leadership, service and clinical expertise in the obstetrical field. She always gave generously of her time and talent to improve care to mothers and infants. Throughout her career Janie mentored many nurses who she mentioned often, always with great pride in their accomplishments.
Janie is predeceased by her parents Edward and Martha Fortwengler and her sister Jennifer Lee Siebel.
A memorial service celebrating her life will be held Friday, December 27th at 11:00am at Bernstein Funeral Home chapel. Family will be accepting visitors at 10:30am. A reception will follow at her home 260 Mallard Pointe Way, Athens, Georgia.
In lieu of flowers please make donations in Janie’s name to “Helping Paws Rescue,”130 Whitetail Way, Bogart, Georgia 30622, Attention: Amanda Crook.
Online condolences may be offered at www.bernsteinfuneralhome.com
Bernstein Funeral Home and Cremation Service is in charge of arrangements.
SHARE OBITUARY
v.1.8.18