Janet Martin Phillips

Janet was a woman of unwavering strength, boundless love, and remarkable persistence. She was the heart of her family and a cherished presence in the lives of so many. Her roles were countless—daughter, sister, cousin, wife, devoted mother (to many), aunt, friend, neighbor, sister-in-law, godmother, mother-in-law, grandmother, and great-grandmother. A true matriarch, she was deeply devoted to those she loved, a devotion evident in the visits, phone calls, and sleepovers that filled her days with joy.

She had just celebrated her two favorite occasions—Christmas and her birthday—surrounded by family and friends, reveling in the love that always made her the center of attention. Christmas was a magical time in Janet’s home, adorned not in traditional red and green, but in her signature blue (her favorite color), white, and silver. Her beautifully wrapped presents matched her carefully decorated tree, and her Department 56 village—lovingly displayed for her newest great-grandchildren—captured the wonder of the season. And of course, no holiday was complete without her famous Christmas turkey and stuffing, the most delicious anyone had ever had.

Born and raised in South Boston, Janet spent her early years surrounded by a close-knit family of parents, brothers, grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins. Her faith, nurtured during her Catholic school years, remained a guiding force throughout her life. She possessed the most beautiful cursive handwriting—her notes were not only heartfelt but works of art in themselves. After moving to Weymouth, into the childhood home her father built, she graduated from Weymouth High School, Class of 1958, before settling in Rockland, where she raised her family for 40 years.

Janet’s determination and work ethic were extraordinary. She embraced countless roles—seamstress, childcare provider, foster parent (like no other), knitter, crocheter, painter, wallpaperer, Campfire Girl leader, costume designer, and teacher. A true entrepreneur, she mastered new skills to help others and provide for her growing family. In 1981, she proudly graduated with High Honors ("Green Key") from Massasoit Community College, later working as a secretary and bookkeeper for several successful businesses.

Her home on Shaw Road was legendary—a place where children came and went, always welcomed with open arms. Janet often said, “When you have 13 kids, what’s one more?” She preferred children over pets, though her kids certainly tested that preference! Her door was always open, her home a safe haven for all.

Later in life, Janet’s compassionate nature shone as she cared for her parents, excelling as a caregiver, decorative artist, tutor, quilter, scrapbooker, and notary. After their passing, she embarked on a new chapter, moving to Oak Point, a 55+ community in Middleboro, where she thrived for over 20 years. There, she became a beloved mentor, teaching decorative painting, sewing, and crafts. She was an integral part of the community, involved in themed dances (Flamingo Flings), concerts, craft fairs, performances, garden clubs, yard sales, and holiday house strolls. She even painted a mural in the Oak Point Clubhouse, a lasting testament to her artistic talent. Janet’s strength and resilience were undeniable, and with the support of her community, she proudly became a breast cancer survivor.

Now, Janet takes on her newest and most prestigious role—that of Guardian Angel, continuing to watch over those she cherished.

She was predeceased by her parents, James Sr. and Loretto (Lydon) Burke; her brother Joseph (Michael) Burke; and her ex-husbands, Gerald Martin Sr. and Frank E. Phillips.

She will be lovingly remembered and deeply missed by her six children:

Kathleen (Michael) Kelble of PembrokeGerald (Theresa) Martin Jr. of New Bern, NCJames (Deborah) Martin of Eagle, COJohn Martin of MiddleboroJoseph Martin of RocklandGwenn (Richard) Buckley Jr. of HolbrookShe leaves behind 18 grandchildren, 29 great-grandchildren, and her beloved brother James (Patricia) Burke Jr. of Stuart, FL, along with many nieces, nephews, relatives, and dear friends. She will also be greatly missed by all who knew her at Oak Point.

A Funeral Mass will be held on Saturday, March 22nd, at 11:00 AM at Holy Apostles Parish (Saint Joseph the Worker), 1 Maquan Street Rte. 14, Hanson, MA. Burial will take place privately at a later date.

In honor of Janet’s generous spirit, memorial donations may be made in her memory to:Susan G. Komen DIY – Dept 41829, P.O. Box 801889, Dallas, TX 75380The Home for Little Wanderers – 72 E. Dedham St., Boston, MA 02118

Please share your memories of Janet on the funeral home’s website guestbook. Her love, kindness, and legacy will live on in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know her.