Jan A Hairston

Jan Anita Hairston (née Black) passed away peacefully on Tuesday, November 11, 2025 at the age of 66. She was born on October 2, 1959, in Tallahassee, Florida, to Barbara Carolyn Black and John Pate Black. She attended Lakeland High School in Shrub Oak, New York where she enjoyed a variety of activities such as pep squad, playing cello, community theater, and writing.

After graduating from high school, she attended Case Western Reserve University where she graduated with a B.A. degree in Psychology and minor degrees in Sociology and Speech Pathology. Jan then graduated from Kent State University with an M.Ed. degree in Rehabilitation Counseling with areas of specialization in Psychiatric Disorders and Addiction.

A true steward of people, Jan devoted more than 30 years to supporting individuals facing mental health and substance use challenges. She led outpatient and partial-hospitalization programs, advocated for those in the criminal justice system as a Court Liaison in Geauga and Lake counties, and served on several dual-diagnosis treatment teams. As a director and supervisor, she supported and mentored colleagues and students seeking licensure, always leading with integrity and a client-first approach.

After over 30 years in the behavioral-health field, Jan embraced a new chapter by returning to school and earning an Associate’s Degree in Web Content Development from Lakeland Community College.

Jan was a devoted follower of Jesus Christ and a regular member of South Euclid United Church of Christ in South Euclid, OH. Known by many for her faith, Jan spent much of her adult life as an alto singer in church choirs and praise bands. A multi-instrumentalist, her love for music was a legacy she shared with her community. Her favorite artists included Prince, the Ohio Players, George Duke, and many more.

A 23-year cancer survivor and 9-year heart-transplant survivor, Jan lived with profound gratitude for the life God granted her. She cherished time spent with her husband and son, creative writing, visiting extended family, enjoying good meals (especially crab), and encouraging young people.

Jan is preceded in death by her parents, Barbara and John Black, and by her husband, Dave Hairston. She leaves behind a legacy of love carried forward by her son, Jamil Hairston; her sister, Joy Freamon; her brothers, Jonathan and Jason Black; and a host of family and friends who will remember the many ways she touched their lives.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to South Euclid Church of Christ:

https://giving.myamplify.io/app/giving/sout4217292