Janet Vavala Smith, 64, of Warren, PA. died peacefully Wednesday afternoon, March 5, 2014 surrounded by her family. She was born February 15, 1950 in Warren, PA. She was the daughter of the late Samuel J. and Jean Arnold Vavala. Janet was a Warren area resident her entire life and a 1968 graduate of Warren High School. She was currently employed with Holy Redeemer R.C. Church as assistant secretary and housekeeper of the church rectory, where she has been employed for over 20 years. She was formerly employed for 18 years as a desk clerk with the Warren Y.M.C.A. and also worked at the former Struthers Wells Corporation. She was a member of Holy Redeemer R.C. Church and the church funeral luncheon committee. She was an avid traveler, enjoyed spending summers at Bemus Point and watching reruns of the show “I Love Lucy.”
She is survived by her husband of 40 years, Eugene “Gene” E. Smith whom she married July 14, 1973 at Holy Redeemer R.C. Church, Warren, PA., 3 Daughters – Wendy Skaggs and husband, Marc of Harrisburg, PA., Michelle Nichols and husband, Cory of Sewickley, PA., Kristin Smith of Lakewood, OH., 1 Sister – Mary Ann Vavala of Dunedin, FL., 2 Grandchildren – Madison and Marlee Skaggs of Harrisburg, PA., 2 Nieces and several cousins.
Friend may call at the Donald E. Lewis Funeral Home, Inc., 304 East Street, Warren, PA. Sunday, March 9, 2014 from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 P.M. where a vigil service will be conducted by Deacon Raymond Wiehagen at 7:45 P.M. A concelebrated Mass of Christian Burial will be conducted Monday, March 10, 2014 at 10:00 A.M. at Holy Redeemer R.C. Church, 11 Russell St., Warren, PA., with Fr. James Gutting, Pastor, and Msgr. John Lucas, former Pastor, celebrating. Interment will be in St. Joseph R.C. Cemetery. Those wishing to place memorials may do so through Holy Redeemer Church Building Fund. E-mail condolences may be sent by visiting www.lewisfuneralhomeinc.com
Janet became my extended family when her daughter Michelle married my brother Cory. With Janet’s influences and guidance she developed 3 amazing daughters and helped mold them into the strong women they are today. Michelle’s family is my family and I am deeply saddened with the news of her passing. Janet was loved by so many and will be greatly missed. My deepest and sincere condolences to her family and friends.
Dear Gene, so sorry to hear about Janet, Bill and Jenny Wolfe
Dear Gene and family,
I was so saddened to read of Janet’s passing.
Both of you have always been wonderful to my parents during the years. Please know that you are all in my prayers and thoughts.
May God provide comfort to you in the days ahead.
Smith Family (Gene, Wendy, Shelly & Kristen): I am so sorry for your loss. I have so many childhood memories of your mom (since I’m pretty sure I lived there half of the time). 🙂 Janet was always so kind and caring. You are all in my thoughts and prayers. May the good memories of your mom help you through this difficult time!
Dear Gene,Wendy,Michelle and Kristin, Daryl and I just heard about Janet. After we moved to Pittsburgh in 2012 we lost track of everyone. We are so very sorry and sad for all of you. Remember all the good times we all had as the kids were growing up. Our sincere sympathies go out to u and are in our thoughts and prayers. Deepest caring to all of you. Love Daryl and Linda
Our condolences to the family of Janet. I am always saddened when a member of Warren High School Class of 1968 dies. We were a spirited and diverse group. Janet’s senior picture in the Dragon is one of the most cheerful in the yearbook.
Zeno and Jo-Ann Henninger
Echternacherbrueck, Germany
Dear Gene, Wendy, Michelle, Kristin & Mary Ann,
Jeff & I were so sorry to hear of Janet’s passing. We are out of town & my sister contacted us about it. We will never forget all the fun playing cards & going out to dinner. I especially enjoyed being around when you girls were just little & your mom was such a wonderful mom. Lots of great memories & we’re sure you all have many of your own. Our sincere condolences to you all & may she rest in peace. Love, Jeff & Darlene Barrett
Gene and family, we were saddened to hear of Janet’s death. We will always remember visiting with the both of you at Jack & Janet’s home as well as Aunt Rose’s house. Janet was a wonderful person and will be missed by everyone. Our condolences to you.