Janet Powell McCanless

Born in Springfield, IL on November 23, 1943, she was the daughter of the late Edward B. Powell and Margaret Gregg.

In addition to her parents, Janet was also preceded in death by her brother, Greg Powell.

Janet experienced a full life, celebrating almost 60 years with the love of her life, Chief Warrant Officer, W-4 (F&S) Robert Lee McCanless, US Coast Guard, Retired, whom she married in 1965. From their union the welcomed three children, Reverend Robert Edward Lee McCanless, Colonel Charles Grady Ross McCanless, US Air Force, Retired and Carol McCanless Brady. Their family continued to grow with 9 grandchildren, Zachary, Garrett, Olivia, Trevor, Christopher, Tommy, Brody, Katie and Delaney.

She was a member of St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, where she was a Commissioned Stephens Minister.

Janet achieved many accolades throughout her life. Over her career, she authored 35 mystery novels; was an author and writer for numerous magazines and area newspapers. She served as a schoolteacher at China Grove Junior High School (Now China Grove Middle School) and a volunteer teacher at Piedmont Correctional Institution; was a Boy Scout Leader: PTA President of China Grove Elementary School, China Grove Junior High School and South Rowan High School.

Continuing in her career, she was President of the Woman’s Club; Woman of the Year; helped found the Rowan County Child Abuse Prevention; served as President of the North Carolina Organization for Child Abuse and Family Violence Prevention. She was the founder of the Rowan County Council on Rape, Family Violence and Child Abuse Prevention and won numerous literary awards.

Janet touched many lives over the years and helped make an impact within the community. Serving as the wife of a US serviceman, she took pride in caring for her husband, and family in good and difficult times. Her passing leaves a void in the hearts of her family, but peace is assured because of her relationship with the Lord.

The family will receive friends Tuesday, November 18, 2025, from 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM at Linn-Honeycutt Funeral Home.

The funeral service will begin at 1:00 PM in the Northcrest Chapel of the funeral Home with Rev. William “Bill” Ketchie officiating. Burial will follow at Salisbury National Cemetery, Salisbury, NC.

Word of comfort and memories may be shared at www.linn-honeycutt.com.

Linn-Honeycutt Funeral Home is honored to be serving the McCanless.