Janet Marie Runyon

     Janet O’Bryan Runyon, 84, born in Huddy, Kentucky, the place she called “home”, lived in Michigan over 60 years, earned her wings on Saturday, January, 28, 2023.  Jan was the beloved wife of the late James Runyon for 30 years. Born on February, 8, 1938, in Huddy, Ky., Janet was one of twelve children of the late Brown and Grace Smith O'Bryan.                                          

     Surviving siblings are Joe O'Bryan and wife Shirley, of Troy, Mich., John O'Bryan of Warren, Mich., Linda O'Bryan of Belfry, Ky., Margaret Stanley of Canada, Ky., Barbara Abshire of Stone, Ky., Shirl Turner of Salt Lake City, Utah, and a sister-in-law, Dean O'Brien of Belfry, Ky.

     Siblings and their spouses that preceded her in death include: Bobby O'Bryan, Frank O'Brien, Mary Lou Runyon and husband Bob, Mae Stallard and husband Howard, Sue Scott and husband Harold, Olva Stanley, Johnny Abshire, and Mark Turner. She is also survived and preceded in death by countless members of the O'Bryan and Runyon families whom she dearly loved

     Janet and Jim are survived by two children, Rhonda Jo Runyon and Melissa Gail Runyon-Johnson; one grandson, Jason James Johnson, and the newest bundle of love, great-grandson, Mariano Valentino Johnson, all of Warren, Michigan Jan & Jim, high school sweethearts, both from Huddy, Ky., married and moved to Detroit, Michigan in 1956. In search of employment opportunities, Jan worked as a cosmetic consultant model at SS Kresge Department store for many years before finding work in the dental field as an assistant and office manager for over 40 years.  Jan was dedicated to her job and enjoyed being able to help others.

     Jan & Jim built a beautiful life together in Michigan, but they always dreamt of moving back home to Kentucky.  After the death of Jim in 1987, Jan became the rock of her family. She was most certainly “Super Woman” in all aspects of life. Jan was a devout Christian and role model to her daughters. Jan’s compassion for others and strength to endure life’s obstacles embodied all who knew her.

     Jan was blessed with a large southern family. She enjoyed spending holidays with all of her brothers, sisters, nieces & nephews. Jan always mentioned how fortunate she was to be part of such a wonderful family.  Jan loved her daughters and instilled in them the value of family and friends. Amongst her life’s blessings, Jan was also known as “Gan” to her greatest treasures, her grandson, Jason (JJ) and great-grandson Mariano; they meant the world to her. 

     Jan’s passion for life stemmed from her devoted relationship with the Lord and service to others. She was a member of the Roseville Church of Christ in Michigan. Her greatest joy came from helping others. Jan looked forward to vacationing in Myrtle Beach, SC. with family. “All are welcome”, she would say, “just find a spot.” She was an amazing cook and would often surprise people with her larger than life chocolate chip cookies or her famous, towering Italian Crème Cakes, and let’s not forget, the smoothest gravy & biscuits this side of the mountain. Jan was a true Southern Belle; her charm would light up any room. Everyone had a friend in Jan. Her life was a gift to all who knew her; she will be greatly missed.

     Funeral services will be conducted at 1 PM Saturday February 4, 2023, at the Sharondale Church of Christ with Bob Werntz officiating. Burial will follow at Mountain View Memory Gardens, Huddy, KY, with family and friends serving as pallbearers. Visitation will be from 5 – 9 PM Friday night at R. E. Rogers Funeral Home. R. E. Rogers Funeral Home of Belfry, KY, is serving the Runyon family. Online condolences at rerogersfh.com