Janet Huskey

Janet Carlisle Southern Huskey of Greenville, SC, died September 20, 2026, following a long, courageous journey with health challenges. Born February 3, 1940, she was the daughter of the late John Albert and Ethel Carlisle Southern.

Janet held B.A. and M.A. degrees from Furman University and was the Administrative Assistant for Furman’s Office of Graduate Studies for over 20 years.

Janet was a long-time member of First Baptist Greenville, where she taught Sunday school, served as a deacon, and volunteered for numerous years as a Visitation Team leader, sharing her care, compassion, time, (and many rides to appointments) with congregational members. She also volunteered in various community service organizations, including reading to children in the Lapsits for Early Literacy program.

Janet was known for her one specialty dish, chicken divan, which was devoured by the firsts in line at family reunions and holiday dinners. She also wowed many with her talent of playing piano by ear. She had a knack for grammar policing, both at work and home - “chickens lay eggs, people lie down!” Her hallmark gifts were her patience, deep listening skills, and her calm, thoughtful empathic responses, whether in conversation or writing. Janet’s steadfast faith and love of hymns brought her peace, comfort and joy, and she generously extended her grace to all.

Janet is survived by her husband of 63 years, Donald Thomas (Tom) Huskey, a son, David Huskey of Greenville (Angie Hart), and a daughter, Robin Huskey of Atlanta (Beth Herndon). She also enjoyed the company of many cousins, nieces and nephews and their children, her bridge club, Thursday Afternoon Club, Sunday school class, and Furman companions, along with many other treasured friends. She was predeceased by her brother, John Lawrence Southern.

A memorial service, followed by a reception, will be held on Thursday, October 1, at 2:00pm at First Baptist Greenville, 847 Cleveland St., Greenville, SC 29601.

Memorials may be made to: the music ministry or the Janet S. Huskey Congregational Care Fund of First Baptist Greenville, 847 Cleveland St., Greenville, SC 29601; or to the charity of one’s choice.

The family is grateful for Janet's many caregivers with Comfort Keepers, Interim Hospice, and Waterstone on Augusta.