Janet Elizabeth Dean

She was born February 7, 1937, in Bradford to David and Marjorie (Kelly) Hickey. Janet married Robert E. Dean Sr., on August 6, 1955; he passed away October 22, 1990.

Janet was also preceded in death by her parents; brother, David; sisters, Shirley, Pat, Joan, and Anne; one grandchild and one great-grandchild.

She is survived by her five children, Kathryn (Steve), James (Ranell), Linda, Robert (Kay), and Joyce; 11 grandchildren; 20 great-grandchildren; four great-great-grandchildren and two sisters, Sue and Terry.

Janet was a graduate of Manual High School, where she distinguished herself not only through academic excellence—graduating as third valedictorian of her class.

She worked for 13 years at Edward Hine Printing Co. as a purchasing agent. Later, she served 10 years with the United States Postal Service.

Outside of work, Janet lived life fully. A proud member of the Red Hat Society, she embraced friendship and fun at every opportunity. She found joy in baking and cooking for loved ones, reading books that took her on countless adventures, and nurturing her garden with the same love she gave her family. She had a knack for upholstery and took great pride in refinishing furniture.

Janet was the heart of her home, happiest when surrounded by family, laughing together while watching her favorite show, Wheel of Fortune or Jeopardy. One of her most cherished and funniest memories is a classic “mom moment”: she often wore multiple pairs of reading glasses around the house, and one day asked, “Has anyone seen my glasses?”—only to find them resting right atop her head, where she always placed them after finishing an article or book. It was a small moment, but one that captured her lovable nature and made everyone laugh.

A visitation for Janet will be held Friday, May 9, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Woolsey-Wilton Funeral Home, Peoria. Following the visitation, there will be a graveside service at 12:30 PM at Saint Patrick's Cemetery, Brimfield. Pastor Jack Thompson will officiate.