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Janet Fulford Obituary
Growing up in South City, she sparkled as a baton twirler, track queen and Roughrider cheerleader at Roosevelt High School.
In 1958 while working at Anheuser-Busch, Janet was crowned Miss Budweiser. The story goes, she spent more on that ball gown for her dance with Gussie Busch than she spent on her first wedding dress.
Janet worked as a TWA reservation agent and traveled the globe extensively with family and friends. She had a strong belief that angels protect you on your travels and always reminded her love ones to “take your angels with you”.
Janet loved her hometown of St. Louis, The Muny, The Fox and spending $300 on a free gift from Lancome. She gave lessons on the lost art of pie making to countless friends and family.
All grandmas love their grandchildren, but Janet took it to another level. You could find her under the blankets with them, armed with a flashlight singing “This Little Light of Mine”, lunching at Neiman Marcus, hosting endless tea parties or on a scavenger hunt for hidden Beanie Babies. If you were Janet’s grandchild, your blanket was warmed in the dryer before your nap.
Janet was a Curly Girl and she was Pop’s girl. Her love and passion for a good ol’ boy from Arkansas changed her world. They managed to blend 6 children, finance 6 college educations and establish their home, the “Forderosa”, as the best place for bar-b-que in Wildwood.
Janet leaves her only sibling and fellow firecracker Shirley McNeil, who at age 4, being born on the 4th of July wanted a sister for her birthday. Legend has it, their mother drank cod liver oil to induce labor and Janet, the second firecracker of the family, was born.
She is survived by her three children with Don Donlon; Chris (Rick) Higginbotham, Joe (Kathy) Donlon, & Missy Donlon, and three step children with the late Pete Fulford; Cindy (Ron) Smith, Lori Fulford, Pete (Kate) Fulford, 9 grandchildren and 4 great grandchildren.
Our deepest thanks go to the wonderful caregivers and staff at Brookdale West County, who comforted Janet through her final days.
She made this final trip by herself, but carried with her the love and admiration of many who knew and appreciated the depth of her loyalty and her zest for life.
Her passport was full. Save for one space that will be stamped in heaven.
Services: Funeral service at the SCHRADER Funeral Home and Crematory, 14960 Manchester Road at Holloway, Ballwin, Wednesday, 2:30 p.m. Interment Bethel Cemetery, Wildwood. Visitation Wednesday 11 a.m. until time of service.
Memories and Condolences
for Janet Fulford
jayden p
September 10, 2024
missing you more and more lately
Jayden Parker
March 11, 2022
I’ve seen this just now, but this is my grandma, I’m in two of the pictures posted and I miss her lots ❤ Love you nanny
Sandy Coomes
September 16, 2018
Janet was one of the best cousins ever. She and I experience so many sad times glad times and happy times. If it weren't for Janet I would never have met my husband Joe. It's very happy story. She and I were to go on a trip to California on TWA ( this part is very important ). At the last minute she had to cancel but I went on by myself. On the return trip traveling alone a man sat next to me we talked a lot over the three and a half hour flight. The story goes on and he and I became very close friends. As it happens Joe was a pilot with TWA and going to work in St Louis. After after being friends for 2 and 1/2 years he eventually became my husband . Conclusion was had Janet gone with me I would have never met my soulmate and love of my life Joe Coomes. Janet never let me forget she was responsible. Joe and Pete became very good friends and we traveled a lot together as a couple. She was such help friend and cousin when I lost my Joe and I never let her forget it.
Darlene Hildebrandt
August 18, 2018
I was one of the Lucky Ones to have started at TWA with Sam in my Class. She was just an Angel then and an Angel now!! She was just a one in a million Special Person! She will be greatly missed!! I am so very grateful that I knew and Loved her. Darlene Hildebrandt and Nick
Cathy Lorenz
August 17, 2018
Janet was such a special lady!!! I am so sorry that she isn't here with us anymore, but I know she is in spirit.
Cathy Lorenz
Marylou Darnell
August 15, 2018
I met Sam when she joined Women In Travel of Greater St Louis. She was on the board with me and took her role as Vice-President of Programs very serious. She would not call the restaurants for reservations; she would personally go to the restaurant and try to manage to get a good deal for our Women In Travel meetings. That was after her stroke and I know it was difficult for her to make these contacts. But that is what she wanted. After that she was our Social Director and found fun outings for us to do. She put her heart and soul in that job too. Needless to say, we had many fun activities.
I had the privilege of taking her to the meetings when she couldn't drive. So for one year each month, I enjoyed hearing about her family and her life. She loved her family dearly.
Sam has certainly made an impact on many people's lives, including my own.
God love you Sam, as we all do.
sneri krueger
August 15, 2018
what a great lady...sam.you will be missed...luv to all..sheri krueger twa..
Norm and Ann Thomas
August 15, 2018
Janet was our beloved Villa neighbor. She warmly welcomed us shortly after our move to the community and quickly became a wonderful, fun friend. We've missed her since she moved and will continue to cherish memories of our time together.
Kathleen O'Reilly
August 15, 2018
Janet was a mentor to me at RHS. She was a year older and I never stopped looking up to her as an ideal of love and kindness, always with a sweet smile. She will bring joy to the angels. Kathy (Feyerabend) O'Reilly
Mona Frame
August 15, 2018
Everyone at Roosevelt High School knew Janet Schlogl. She was funny, exuberant, friendly, caring and a cheerleader through and through. And, it wasn't just high school. She carried that enthusiasm and joi de vive throughout her life. The Roosevelt Chicks' luncheons and dinners kept us in touch for many years after high school. Our paths would cross in so many ways over the years and she was always the same. Sparkling!!! I will always remember her smile, her enthusiasm and her genuine personality. She has a place in my heart that will always be there.
Carole Shubert
August 15, 2018
Janet was a good friend, and I admired her spunk, and her thoughtfulness. She always kept her sense of humor, and was a joy to be around. She will be greatly missed.
Tom & Sam Brooke
August 14, 2018
To our wonderful crazy, beautiful wild firecracker chick...we had some wild times with you and big Pete...we will always remember your bright and shining personality...God Bless You.
Christine Wagnon
August 14, 2018
I met Janet when she was bringing her granddaughter to Emmanuel Episcopal Church in Webster Groves. She was so warm and lovely. We didn't spend near enough time but it was always such a pleasure to see her. Ran into one day at Lady of Life center. I'm so sorry to hear of your loss but feel so fortunate that I met her.
Judy McKinstry
August 14, 2018
Deepest sympathy to the whole family. Sam was my supervisor at TWA and she was nothing but kind and caring. I will always remember her with a smile.
Marge (Vallowe) Phipps
August 14, 2018
Having moved to Florida with TWA 31 yrs. ago, I sadly lost contact with my STL co-workers, including Sam. I am so sorry to hear for her passing. I will never forget her beautiful smile and infectious laugh. She will be greatly missed, and my condolences go out to her family.
2011 Muny Show
Van and Isabelle Nguyen
August 13, 2018
This amazing lady was like a mom/grandmother to us in STL because we had no family around. Her wit and amazing spirit always lit up the room, and we left any activity with her knowing we were very much loved. From the tea parties to the park picnics with real cloth napkins to the shows at the Muny and Fox, we knew we were in the presence of someone classy yet down-to-earth that our lives are better for knowing her. Love you, Missy, Samantha and the rest of the Donlon family that shared her with us! We will miss the twinkle in your eyes and the smiles that left our hearts with warm fuzzies!
Janney at Kruz's HS graduation
The Higginbotham's
August 13, 2018
Janney at Kruz's HS graduation (June2017)
Frank and Karen Greening
August 13, 2018
Missy and Chris,
We remember your Mom as our "Janet the Fire Cracker" neighbor at the Villas. She was such a special lady and we enjoyed spending time with her and your family.
May you find strength in your grieving and joy in your remembering.
Linda Lowry
August 13, 2018
I am so sorry for your loss. She was a special lady and I have enjoyed her friendship here at the villas and our times together for bridge and Maj Hong. I will not be able to attend the service, but she and the family are in my thoughts and prayers.
Diane Ellenberger
August 13, 2018
When I was a little girl in Rose Fanning Grade School, Janet was the majorette for the Drum & Bugle Corp and my "hero". My brother, Leroy, was a bugler and my father and I would accompany him to Drum & Bugle Corp rehearsals in the evenings in the school yard. I had been taking baton twirling classes and Janet allowed me and my baton to march along with her during the rehearsals ...I was thrilled....She was so much fun, pretty, talented and kind and being a majorette just like her was what I wanted to be...however, I never made it because I was "not coordinated enough" for the baton twirling teacher....But to this day I remember Janet for her kindness to me by letting me march and twirl with her and make my dreams come true if only for an evening or two....
Janet was also in our Sunday School and during a talent show she sang "my sweet little alice blue gown" which I also still remember her for....she was lovely and talented....
Reading about her later life, she never lost the specialness she had as a majorette in grade school....My deepest sympathy to Janet's family....
Yvonne Wesa
August 13, 2018
I just loved her! She was the sweetest lady! And always positive . . . no matter. She did plan some fun experiences for our Women In Travel group! We will miss her and that smile!
Barbara Warneke
August 13, 2018
Janet will always be one of my best buddies, neighbors, friends. What fun and special memories I have! Her light will always shine bright in the many hearts she touched.❤
Barbara Warneke
Carol Simon
August 13, 2018
Condolences to Sam's family from one of her fans. She was a dear and very special lady. She was wonderful and helpful with WIT. Wish we could have had her with us longer. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Patricia Holloway
August 13, 2018
To my cousins, Chris & Joe & Missy and all of the family, my heartfelt condolences for your loss. Of my Auntie, I have so many fond childhood memories when she and my mom would get us all together. There were 7 of us little stair steps; Patty, Johnny, Chrissy, Mikey, Joey, Molly, & Missy; and our moms would laugh about all the stares & comments theyd get whenever we were all together. Every summer, we took a ride on the Admiral, it was so much fun, we ran around on that boat all day without a care in the world! I remember going to sleep over at Aunties house & in the morning shed ask you want some juice honey? She was a big advocate for juice every morning. And it was special at Aunties House cause she didnt just have orange juice, shed have pineapple, grape, or apricot and always served it in those little jelly jar glasses.
Funny, what comes to mind at a time like this. I will always remember her sweet smile & the sound of her voice.
Rest In Peace now Auntie where there is no pain or memory loss, no worries or cares. I love you.
Patty
Ciera Berra
August 12, 2018
My deepest condolences are with all of her loved ones. Janet was such a delight to be around and was always so sweet to me. Every time I saw her she would give me a hug and show me the biggest smileshe truly brightened my day every time. She was such a beautiful person, one with a heart of gold.
Vera Schrock
August 12, 2018
Grief can be so hard, but our special memories help us cope. Remembering you and your loved one today and always.
Claudia Williams
August 12, 2018
Loved playing bridge with Janet for so many years. I will miss her
Patti (to Sam Trish) Bader
August 12, 2018
Sam was one of my dearest friends..we spent may of evenings having as she would say a Honky Tonk night and many times crying over a crisis in one of our lives..she was one in a million and I will miss her as my dear friend,.l love you Sammy... I'm sure you took your Angel with you.
Shellee Adams
August 12, 2018
To my sweet Antie,
I have so many special memories of you from my childhood. Visiting with you and Uncle Pete was always an adventure for me and my sisters, you were always cutting up and making us laugh. May you Rest In Peace. I know that youre looking down on us without pain or worry. Please take extra care and look after Granny Mac. I know she is so lost without her best friend. I love you.
Till I see you again,
Shellee Marie Adams
Jean Fetterman
August 12, 2018
I was lucky enough to be in the same training class as Sam at TWA. She always had a smile on her face and ready to help you any way she could. During training, Sam's father had passed away, she took a couple days off and when she came back, worked her behind off to catch up with the class. I remember her working at the computers long after the class was over She was a very dedicated employee and wonderful friend. I'm sure Pete was ready for her with open arms.
Nancy Miller
August 12, 2018
Janet was such a special gal. I had so much fun playing bridge with her for many years. At first, we played in our homes and then in our senior years, we played in local restaurants. I loved seeing her Beanie Baby Collection. I will always remember her sweet smile, even though she often "trumped my aces"!
Debbey (Greulich) Pittinger
August 12, 2018
Will miss one of the original Ho Ho Ho Xmas party girls. I will remember you every holiday when I put out the Ho Ho Ho decoration you gave me
Dianne Whittaker
August 12, 2018
The most precious soul I have ever known❤ My heart is so very sad. There are no words really. Just gratitude that I was blessed enough in my life to have known her and her special spirit
Nancy James
August 12, 2018
Im so glad I had a chance to know Janet - she was always so kind to Nathan and welcomed us from the first time we met as family. May she be at peace and know how much she was loved and missed.
Oh, Janet, you will be missed by so many. You are LOVED!
Marilyn Ghanem
August 12, 2018
I know Janet is flying with her angles. She will be missed by all who love her.
EmmaJean Bedalow
August 12, 2018
All prayers are with the family, she was my cousin and I'll never forget all her kindness to me at Roosevelt High school, her a senior and me a freshman, loved her laughs at the family reunions, she will remain in our hears. Greg and EmmaJean Bedalow
Kathleen and Paul Bayless
August 12, 2018
Sam, as we knew her through mutual TWA friends, was fun-loving, kind and gracious. Despite long gaps in seeing one another, she always seemed genuinely interested in our lives and made a point to revisit and catch up. You just liked being in her presence. Our thoughts and prayers go out to family and all who were fortunate enough to have known her.
Ronni Kahn
August 12, 2018
Janet was my best friend in all the world. She was kind and loving and had positive things to say about everyone. She made friends everywhere she went. It was impossible to know her without knowing how loyal she was or how very much she treasured her family and friends. She will be missed by hundreds of people and most assuredly by me.
August 12, 2018
Please receive my heartfelt condolences. May the God of comfort give you strenght. He gave us the hope of the resurection. I will keep the entire family in my prayers.
Dianne and Bob May
August 12, 2018
When I think of your mother I always loved her attitude and her love of her family . Knowing Janet Sam in later life she had a rare gift of talent , caring about others, loyal and sparkling smile that remain through her lifetime.
I will miss her .
Lois Harangozo
August 12, 2018
Sam and I were classmates at TWA Reservations....class of 770228....over 40 yrs ago. We survived our training and worked many yrs at TWA. We all took turns having annual reunions. She was such a sweet lady, and she and Pete were such gracious hosts, we all stayed later than usual! We shared a lot of funny passenger/customer stories. Sam was part of a special group...she will be missed. She doesnt need those airline passes anymore....shes got her wings now. Rest In Peace, Sam, with Pete by your side.
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for Janet Fulford
Aug
15
Visitation
11:00 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.
Schrader Funeral Home and Crematory - Ballwin14960 Manchester Road, Ballwin, MO 63011
Aug
15
Funeral service
2:30 p.m.
Schrader Funeral Home and Crematory - Ballwin14960 Manchester Road, Ballwin, MO 63011
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Schrader Funeral Home and Crematory - Ballwin14960 Manchester Road, Ballwin, MO 63011