Janet Elizabeth Chinn

Janet Wise Chinn, a cherished educator, loving mother, and dedicated wife, passed away peacefully on December 10, 2025, at Morning Breeze Retirement Center in Greensburg, IN. Born on February 11, 1944, in Lafayette, IN, Janet was the loving daughter of Walter and Frances Griffin Wise. She grew up on a farm near West Point, IN, where she spent her formative years alongside her sister, Marilyn, who joined the family in 1947.

Janet's passion for education was evident from an early age. She began her academic journey at West Point School, where she attended for eight years. Her pursuit of knowledge led her to Central Catholic High School, from which she graduated in 1962. Janet's educational path continued at Ball State University from 1962 to 1965, after which she returned to her hometown to attend Purdue University. There, she achieved her Bachelor of Arts in 1968, followed by her Master of Arts in 1974, marking the start of a lifelong commitment to learning and teaching.

In her personal life, Janet shared 47 years of marriage with her beloved husband, James Chinn, until his passing in 2012. Together, they built a life filled with love, laughter, and shared values.

Janet's professional life was equally rich and rewarding. She began her teaching career at Mintonye Elementary School and later moved to Mayflower Mill, where she taught until her retirement in 1994. Janet took great pride in educating countless students and always spoke highly of the exceptional staff she worked with. She believed that "Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world," a sentiment famously expressed by Nelson Mandela.

West Lafayette was Janet's home for 33 years, a community she cherished deeply. After the loss of her husband, Janet found solace and support in the home of her daughter, Angie (Dale), where she lived for nearly seven years. In February 2025, she transitioned to the Morning Breeze Retirement Community, where she was embraced by caring staff who became like a second family to her, providing compassionate care until her final days.

Janet's legacy is carried on by her two children, Jeff (Debbie) Chinn of Indianapolis, IN, and Angela (Dale) Sutton of North Manchester, IN. She was a proud grandmother to five grandchildren, Kara (Abhi) Chinn Rameswaram , Stephanie (Rickey) Chinn , Jessica (Kushoal) Chinn Manchella , Drew Sutton, and Beth Sutton. Her love for education resonated within her family, as all her children and grandchildren completed their college education and embarked on successful careers.

Services to celebrate Janet's life will be held on Saturday, December 13, 2025, at Tippecanoe Funeral and Cremation Services, located at 1671 W. 350 N. West Lafayette, IN 47906. Visitation will be from 12pm to 1pm, followed by the service at 1pm.

Janet Wise Chinn's life was a testament to the value of education, the strength of family, and the enduring power of love. Her memory will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to know her.

In lieu of flowers Janet has asked donations be made directly to:

Tricia's Doghouse 20 1/2 S 16th St, Lafayette, IN 47905