Janet McKinney Summers

Janet McKinney Summers was born on March 23, 1956 in Jacksonville, FL to Edward and Margaret McKinney. The second of four children, she came to affectionately be known as “The Boss” by her beloved siblings. She passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, January 7, 2024, in Jacksonville, FL. She was 67.

She married Ronald Lee Summers on June 14, 1980 and for the last 35 years, they resided in their home on the Southside. Jan was an elementary school educator for many years and later went on to earn her Master’s Degree in Guidance Counseling. She spent her final career years as a school counselor at Love Grove Elementary. She retired from the Duval County School System in May 2021 but remained active as a substitute teacher at Love Grove. Her impact on thousands of children as a career educator and advocate, as well as her support and championing of other educators, is one of her largest legacies.

Jan and Ron joined Grace Community Church in Mandarin in 2013. Jan was a strong Christian and a firm believer in Jesus Christ. She loved her church, hosting Grace Group, playing the piano and flute, volunteering in the church nursery, and was a mentor and beloved friend to many in the congregation. She loved going to the lake house, and could often be found reading a book in a beach chair near the water’s edge. Other hobbies included motorcycle rides and camping with Ron, spoiling her grandchildren, catching up with friends, and reminding everyone that since she was retired-“Every day is Saturday.”

Jan is proceeded in death by both her mother and father. She is survived by her husband of 43.5 years, Ron, their daughters Cassidy Hettema (Kyle), and Tiffany Nelsen (Matthew), and her five beloved grandchildren: Anders, Gwendolyn, Marjorie, Simon, and Benjamin. She is also survived by her siblings, Eddie McKinney (Judi), Mary Jo Rice (Barron), Judy Renn (Pascal), as well as an incredible number of beloved nephews, nieces, cousins, and their spouses and children. She held the title of “Grammy” for the shortest of all of her careers but she treasured it the most.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the Children’s Organ Transplant Association (COTA) at www.cota.org.

A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, January 20, 2024 at 10:30am at Grace Community Church in Jacksonville, FL (10938 Hood Road).