Janis Elaine Johnston, 67, of Alton, KS, passed away May 27, 2021, at Osborne County Memorial Hospital. She was born July 8, 1953, in Indianapolis, IN to Earl R. & Betty L. (Gunnell) Brown Jr. Janis graduated from Arlington H. S. in Indianapolis and continued her education to become a certified dental assistant from Indiana University's School of Dentistry, working in this profession until her marriage. Janis married Jerry W. Johnston November 27, 1976; they shared 44 years together.
She was an active member of Mt. Ayr Friends Church, always excited to serve on committees and loved spreading the word of Christ. Some volunteer contributions she was most proud of include serving on the boards for Hospice and the American Cancer Society. She also enjoyed being a member of the Nominating Committee for the Friends Yearly meeting, member of the Osborne County Extension Council and always looked forward to Gideon's meetings. In addition to volunteer work in the community, and time as a dental assistant, she also spent several years as an Administrative Assistant at Progressive Care Home Health.
Everyone could always count on Jan's sunny disposition and lively conversation to encourage and brighten the day. In addition to being a loving wife and mother, she was affectionately known as Aunt Jan to her family and friends around the community.
Janis is survived by her husband Jerry (Alton, KS), sons Jason (Douglas) Overland Park, KS, brothers Robert L. Brown (Barbara) Grand Rapids, MI and Ross W. Brown (Rosie) Crawfordsville, IN and sisters Jennifer A. Johnston (Mike Kincheloe) Cawker City, KS and Judith L. Rigsbee (Bruce) New Palestine, IN, sisters-in-law Ruth Elaine (Tom) Dunn, Anna, IL, Cindy L. (Rich) Little, Auburn, KS and brother-in-law Rex A. (Peggy Anschutz) Johnston, Alton, KS 19 nieces & nephews, 26 great nieces & nephews, and two great-great nieces and nephews.
Jan wanted to express her appreciation to Osborne County Memorial Hospital and Tammy Walker Cancer Center for excellent care over her long battle with breast cancer.
Services will be available via Zoom for anyone who is unable to attend, Meeting ID 925 8617 9402.
Click HERE for service details.