Janette Steele, 83, of Grassflat, PA, passed away peacefully on October 19, 2024, after a long battle with Alzheimer’s disease. Born on May 5, 1941, in Philipsburg, she was the beloved daughter of the late Ruth (Waple) Ferguson. On August 27, 1960, she married William L. “Bill” Steele.
Janette was a proud graduate of West Branch High School, Class of 1960. Throughout her career, she dedicated herself to helping others, working with UDS, an independent living service, and contributing her talents at Woolrich Woolen Mills, Kylertown Truckstop Motel, the Cigar Factory in Philipsburg, and Walmart. Her compassion for those in need defined her professional life.
A member of Gethsemane United Methodist Church in Allport, Janette cherished her faith and actively participated in church services and community events.
Janette had a passion for the outdoors, finding joy in gardening and shopping, especially at Ollies. Above all, her family was her greatest treasure. She relished every moment spent with her loved ones and welcomed them all into her home with an open door and a warm smile. The neighborhood children knew they could always count on her kindness and generosity.
Janette is survived by her six daughters: Cynthia Steele-Michaels and her husband, Jim, of Winburne, Patricia Solt and her husband, Gary, of Bellefonte, Susan Patton and her husband, Derrick, of Dover, PA, Teresa Houston and her husband, Robert, of Winburne, Paula Pash and her husband, Joe, of Grassflat, and Billie Steele and her fella, Brian Dudak, of Lanse; as well as 11 grandchildren: Tony Woodside, Alona Shaw, Nathan Shaw, Charles Smeal, Dakota Smeal, Devin Smeal, Victoria Stine, Brandon Steele, Kaylee Slother, Derek Adams, and Alexa Smeal; three step-grandchildren: Chad Huyett, Shane Huyett, and Ryan Huyett; 26 great-grandchildren; five step great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandson. She is also survived by her twin sister, Genevieve Weaver of Bloomsburg, one brother, John “Jack” Ferguson of Philipsburg, and numerous nieces and nephews, including George and Larry Steele, whom she loved as sons.
Janette was preceded in death by her mother, husband, and six brothers: Thomas, Jr., Grant, Lee, Gordon, Charles, and Timothy, as well as two sisters, Effie Neidig and Marie Krasinski.
Public viewing and visitation will be held on Wednesday, October 23, 2024, from 4-8 PM at Gethsemane United Methodist Church, 369 Allport Cutoff, Allport, PA. A funeral service will take place on Thursday, October 24, 2024, at 11 AM at the church, officiated by Rev. Julia Piper. Burial will be private at the Ferguson Family Cemetery in Pleasant Hill, PA.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial contributions be made to the Ferguson Family Cemetery, C/O Jack Ferguson, 203 Rowland Ave, Philipsburg, PA 16866.
The family extends heartfelt gratitude to Aseracare Hospice and the dedicated caregivers at Centre Care, especially Laurie, Mandy, Ernest, Carrie, Jessica, and Kim Sample, for their exceptional love and care during Janette’s final days. Your kindness did not go unnoticed.
Arrangements are entrusted to Daughenbaugh Funeral Home, Inc. in Snow Shoe, PA. An online guest book is available for signing and condolences at www.daughenbaughfuneralhome.com.
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Janette Steele, 83, of Grassflat, PA, passed away peacefully on October 19, 2024, after a long battle with Alzheimer’s disease. Born on May 5, 1941, in Philipsburg, she was the beloved daughter of the late Ruth (Waple) Ferguson. On August 27, 1960, she married William L. “Bill” Steele.
Janette was a proud graduate of West Bra