Joan Janes

Joan T. Janes, age 89, at rest in the loving arms of Jesus on Thursday, October 20, 2022 at Ascension St. Joseph. Survivors include her daughters, Mary Moore, Shirley (Oliver) Clements, Joyce (Arne) Lindberg; grandchildren, Matthew, Kristen Moore, Joni (Alex) Davis, Katherine, William, Lucy (fiance Daniel) Clements; great grandchild Finn Davis; brother-in-law, Charles (Mary Sue) Janes; nieces, nephews, cousins. Preceded in death by her parents, William and Theresa (Meyer) Reilly, her husband of 59 years Edward, brothers Kenneth and William Jr. 

Born in Joliet on November 8, 1932 and was a lifelong resident.  Before her marriage to Edward in 1954, Joan worked at the telephone company. When her children were older she started working at St. Joseph's Hospital as a switchboard operator, retiring after several years.

Joan was first and foremost a loving mother and grandmother. Her life was full of love and concern for her family before her own needs. She had a gentle and compassionate spirit toward others. Joan loved animals, books and music of all kinds, Irish history and culture, poetry, cooking and baking, and sweets--especially chocolate milkshakes. Gatherings with her "club" group of special friends meant much to her. Joan was thrilled when she learned to swim as an adult. She enjoyed watching Notre Dame football games and cherished her travels to Ireland.

Joan was a lifelong Catholic and found great comfort in prayer and her favorite hymns, drawing her closer to God. The legacy of her unfailing love and those sparkling blue eyes will never be forgotten in the hearts of those who knew her. 

Joan's family thanks the staff, especially the nurses, at St. Joseph's for compassionate care. Private Visitation and Funeral Mass on Tuesday, October 25, 2022 St. Paul the Apostle Catholic Church. Burial, Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Children's Home & Aid.