Janet Ina Westfall

Janet Westfall passed away on October 16, 2026, at the age of 81. Born on March 10, 1945, she was a woman of boundless energy, infectious positivity, and deep devotion to her family and community, leaving behind a radiant legacy of warmth, curiosity, and kindness.

Born in Lubbock and raised in Denver, Janet carried an adventurous spirit throughout her life. She pursued her higher education at Knox College in Galesburg, Illinois, earning her Bachelor of Arts, and nurtured a lifelong love for the world through a transformative study abroad experience in France.

For forty wonderful years, Janet shared a devoted marriage with her husband, Wendell. Together, they built a vibrant family life and raised two sons, Nolan and Derek. Janet then went back to work and was proud to use her French language skills as a manger for CSC Logic, assisting Canadian clients.

Later in life, Janet embraced her cherished role as a grandmother to Ella, Ezra, and Harrison, finding her greatest joy in supporting and celebrating their unique accomplishments and interests. She is also survived by her loving sister, Anne Gutzmer.

Janet’s joyful spirit carried seamlessly into her retirement years, where her passion for travel truly flourished. With an open and eager heart, she journeyed extensively across Europe and Africa, creating unforgettable memories in countries such as Cameroon, Croatia, Hungary, and South Africa.

Janet possessed a natural gift for connecting with people. She loved talking to others, listening intently, and learning the unique stories of everyone she met. Grounded in a spirit of tolerance and fair-mindedness, she dedicated much of her time to her faith and community. As an active member of the First United Methodist Church, she poured her energy into volunteer work, including packing food parcels for communities in need around the world. She volunteered for many years with Meals on Wheels and was active with the American Association of University Women. She was also a familiar, welcoming presence to many as a longtime volunteer usher at the Eisemann Center for Performing Arts, alongside enjoying the lively discussions and fellowship of her local book groups.

Janet’s positivity touched everyone fortunate enough to know her, and her memory will live on in the hearts of her family, friends, and all whose lives she brightened.

The family wishes to express their deepest, heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Princeton Medical Lodge and Baylor Scott & White Hospital for their skillful and compassionate care over the past months, as well as the First United Methodist Church for their unwavering support.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to The American Cancer Society or the Richardson Public Library.