Janet Blackwell

Janet Hazel Blackwell, (neé, Mefford), 77, of Granite City, Illinois, passed away peacefully on Sunday, July 6, 2025, at Gateway Regional Medical Center.  Born November 19, 1947, in Granite City, Illinois, she was the beloved daughter of the late Harold and Lula (Singer) Mefford.

Janet graduated from Granite City High School in 1966. She began her faith journey at Bethel Chapel in Granite City, where she played the organ and taught Sunday School. She continued her devotion at Calvary Life Church. Janet was very creative, enjoying ceramics and excelling as a seamstress, making beautiful dresses and clothes for her family and friends. She loved the outdoors and camping. Her greatest delight was in the company of her daughters, especially during their cherished shopping trips. Often described as a saint, Janet filled every room with her laughter and song, leaving a unique mark on all who knew her. She will be forever remembered as a beloved mother and grandmother, whose radiant smile brightened her family's days. Janet's legacy of compassion, faith, and love will continue to inspire and uplift all who were fortunate enough to share in her life.

In addition to her parents, Janet was preceded in death by her daughter, Andrea Blackwell, in infancy; her brother, Phillie Mefford; and her sister, Ruth Laswell. 

Surviving to cherish her memory are her children, Tanya (Paul, Sr.) Chester, of Black, Missouri, Christine (Steve Galiher) Haislip, and Renee (Erron White) Blackwell, both of Granite City, Illinois; her grandchildren, John (Ashlee Brandt) Stewart, Miranda (Gavin) Schragg, Garrett (Rebecca Bazzell) Haislip, Madalyn Haislip, Connor Haislip, Emma White, and Paul W. Chester, Jr.; and many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. 

Memorials are appreciated to the family. Condolences may also be expressed online at www.irwinchapel.com.

Visitation: Family and friends may gather from 9 to 11 a.m., Saturday, July 12, 2025, at Irwin Chapel, 3960 Maryville Rd., Granite City, Illinois. 

Funeral: Service will follow at 11 a.m., Saturday, July 12, 2025, at Irwin Chapel in Granite City with Pastor Mark Maynard officiating. 

Obit Provided By:
Irwin Chapel Funeral Home