Janet Katherine Staples

Janet Katherine Staples, 77, passed away November 17, 2025. She was born to Roberta Whittlesey Jackson and David Jackson on October 26, 1948, in Chicago, Illinois. She graduated with a bachelor's and a master's degree from Sam Houston State University, Huntsville, Texas and had a fulfilling career teaching elementary school for 23 years in Houston, Chicago, and Colorado. In her favorite state of Colorado, she took pleasure in sharing its mountains and wildlife with her visitors. After retiring from teaching, she enjoyed working in various retail positions.

Traveling to Hawaii several times with her husband, Mike, was always special. She loved being with her family, near and far, and she instilled in her three boys the family values she was raised with. Pekingese dogs and Himalayan and Ragdoll cats brought great pleasure and entertainment to the household.

Just as Janet was a dedicated and generous wife, mother, and teacher, she served willingly in various roles in her church and valued her church community. She was a member of First Church of Christ, Scientist, Fort Collins, Colorado. Her lifelong faith gave her strength, guidance, patience, and serenity.

Janet is survived by her two sons, Bradley Staples of Lake City, Florida and Michael David Staples and wife Danica of Warren, Michigan; sister, Virginia (Ginny) Davis and husband Edward of Normangee, Texas; niece, Kristi Akers (Tim); nephew, Bryan Davis (Valerie Esposito); great-nephew Wyatt Akers (fiancé Bailey Smith), great-niece Ainsley Akers; great-niece Mirabelle Esposito Davis; great-niece Zara Esposito Davis; and great-grandniece Blakely Akers.

Janet was preceded in death by her parents, husband Michael Randall Staples, son Bruce Johnson, and granddaughter, Kellie Staples.

A family graveside service will be held at Rosehill Cemetery in Chicago at a later date.