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Janet Alfieri Obituary
Janet was born March 7, 1939 to George Cruikshank Kemp Duff and Rosalind Hillman (née Murray) in Webster, MA. She is survived by her daughter Marisa; son Tony (Amanda); grandchildren Chelcee, Gibson and Geneva; sister-in-law Dolores (Keith) and nephew Jonathan; and her beloved Phinney/Duff nieces, nephews and their families. Janet lost her son, James L., in 2015 and her husband of 62 years, James A., in April 2025.
After graduating from Simmons College in Boston in 1961 with a degree in Physical Therapy, she fulfilled a lifelong dream of moving to California by relocating to Oakland, where she met the love of her life, James. They married in 1963 and, with their two young children, lived and worked across Northern California before settling in Bennett Valley.
Janet practiced Physical Therapy in Santa Rosa and then throughout Sonoma County through home healthcare. After retiring in 2004, she volunteered extensively with organizations including Los Guilicos, The Living Room, Team In Training, St. Eugene's Cathedral, and by giving rides to any and all who needed one.
Janet was a lifelong sports fanatic, rooting for the Raiders, Warriors, Cal, and her beloved A's, usually at her favorite sports venue, The Oakland Coliseum. She was a dedicated cat mom, tea aficionado, movie buff, café regular, and voracious reader. She honored her Scottish heritage with a thistle tattoo and by celebrating St. Andrew's Day each Nov. 30.
Janet has been described as loving, caring, thoughtful, big-hearted, someone to whom you could bare your heart. She was more than one person's best friend. Her spirit can be symbolized by her favorite flower, the California golden poppy - delicate, resilient, and shining. You are always with us, mom.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Janet Alfieri
5 Entries
Tom Gallagher
January 28, 2026
I met Janet at '' Team in Training'' in 2004. Her and her husband ( my good friend) Jim, were both Oakland Raiders fans and I was/am a Pittsburgh Steelers fan. How we became close friends is a minor miracle :) I cherish the memory of them at my wedding and at Team and Training events, especially a long conversation we had at Humbolt State Park after running a 1/2 marathon. She made sure I was re-hydrated and we had a lot of laughs that afternoon. She was such a caring person, a 12 on a scale of 1 thru 10. I'll miss sending and recieving good natured cards making fun of each others favorite teams. I trust that her and Jim are re-united and back together where they belong. I will always consider our frienship as one of the greatest blessings of my life.
Linda Pisenti
January 3, 2026
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Debbie DeSoto
December 30, 2025
I send my deepest condolences to the Alfieri family. What a beautiful photo of Janet--not only were her Irish eyes smiling, but her entire being smiled!
I knew Janet for over 40 years, not only as a colleague/fellow PT, but also as a dear friend. After her retirement, we kept in touch with tea dates and Christmas cards. I will always remember the great time we had when Janet and Jim took me and my daughter to an Oakland A's game (my daughter shared their loyalty to all Oakland teams).
Besides all of the wonderful qualities mentioned in Janet's obituary, I have to add that she was selfless, compassionate and very fun to be with. She was involved in so many things, but the one thing she held dearest to her heart was her family. She always talked about her children and grandchildren, and was so proud of them all. May the memories of all of the happy times you shared bring you a smile and warm your hearts.
Cynthia Bokor
December 30, 2025
My Auntie was the kindest woman. She was a joy to be around. I miss her greatly. Love you, Auntie Jan
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Lorraine Cheli
December 28, 2025
Sending my condolences to Janet's family. I knew Jim And Janet for many years through the senior social group, Golden Opportunities, meeting monthly at St,. Eugene's parish hall. Janet was one of the most caring persons. She was always there for anyone that needed anything. I feel truly blessed to have known them both. Praying that your beautiful memories will sustain you during this difficult time. Soar with the angels, Janet.
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