Phyllis Jane Childers

Janie loved life, and she loved people. Active and outgoing throughout her life, she truly never met a stranger. She had a natural warmth and an easy way of connecting with people wherever she went. She enjoyed being around others, and friendships came naturally to her because of the genuine interest she took in people and the joy she found in their company.

Janie shared 56 years of marriage with her husband, James Childers. Together they built a life and a family that remained at the center of Janie’s world.

She leaves behind James and their three children, James Bryan Childers, John Breck Childers and his wife Carrie, and Sarah Jane Jones and her husband Brice, as well as four beloved grandchildren, Vann Childers, Hayes Childers, Layla Jones, and Sophie Jones.

For 20 years, Janie faced Parkinson’s disease with remarkable courage and determination. She was a fighter, bound and determined to beat the disease and to continue living life on her own terms. As the years passed and the challenges became greater, that determination remained a part of who she was.

Parkinson’s ultimately proved to be more than her body could overcome, but the disease never defined Janie. She was defined by the life she lived, the family she loved, the friendships she treasured, and the countless people she welcomed into her life.

Janie’s long journey with Parkinson’s was one she did not make alone. Her family will forever be grateful to the caregivers who stood faithfully by her side, to the friends who continued to surround her with friendship and encouragement, and to all those who helped Janie maintain the fullest life possible throughout those years.

Above all, Janie will be remembered for her love of people, her energy, her strength, and her determination. She leaves behind a family who loved her deeply, friends who remained devoted to her, and memories accumulated over a lifetime.

After a long and determined fight, Janie is finally at peace. Parkinson’s may have ultimately taken her life, but it could never take away the love she gave, the friendships she made, or the place she holds in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.

Janie will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.

A Private family service will be held on a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Fort Smith Animal Haven, 9501 Black Bear Trail, Fort Smith, AR 72916 or https://fsmah.org/donate/