Janet Evans

Surrounded by the caring, comforting embrace of her closest loved ones, Janet Lynne Evans went home to our heavenly father on January 28th, 2023. She will be remembered by her children, grandchildren, and sisters as well as her Alaskan family that has been her community of dear friends for the last 50 years. The legacy of her life is that of kindness, generosity, and selflessness.

She was born on April 23, 1952, in Delaware and grew up in Arizona and New Mexico. She moved to Alaska in 1973 as a new bride awaiting a new adventure in the Last Frontier, eventually settling in the Valley for the next five decades. Jan was highly involved in the Lakes Volunteer Fire Department as an active member and for a time, president of the Women’s Auxiliary - keeping the firefighters nourished and fueled to save lives and protect the community. She responded to that need even in the middle of the night - and even at a time when she had young children at home. She was dependable and self-sacrificing.

She worked in numerous areas of the school district, from lunchroom to educational aide and administrative assistant - always supporting and encouraging kids along the way. This led to her being the administrative secretary of two schools - Tanaina Elementary and Machetanz Elementary. At her schools, she performed far beyond her duties, always focusing on the children. From giving them a safe calming space in her office when they were having a bad day, to participating in reading programs with the students, she gave the kids as much attention as her office work. Her work with children was a source of joy.

Jan’s care and nurturing was never limited to her own children. She celebrated new life with as much enthusiasm as if they were her own. Many children grew up knowing her as Aunt Jan - this meant she was much more than just a family friend - she was someone that loved you dearly and that you could always count on.

She was very blessed to have family that was so close no matter how many miles separated them. She was blessed to have so many groups over the years that became her family in Alaska - from those faithful friends since the beginning, to the neighbors that were her village, the fire department that sacrificed together, and the vast community through the school district.

We were all very blessed because of her. And she loved her grandchildren dearly - no matter if it could be in person a few times a year, or if it had to be from a distance. She took joy in every phone call, video chat, picture, drawing, card, or message that she received from them and cherished every moment she was able to be with them.

Jan’s death leaves a huge hole in the lives of many - from her local community in Alaska to her friends and family scattered throughout the lower 48. She was so many things: friend, mom, aunt, grandmother, sister, neighbor... She loved many. She was loved by many. She will be missed by many.

A celebration of Jan’s life will be held at Janssens Mat-Su funeral home on April 15th at 11 am. Please join us in remembering who she was and how much joy she brought into all of our lives.