Janet Ann Mitchell

Janet Ann Mitchell, devoted wife, mother, nurse, and vibrant community member, passed away on April 1, 2025, at the age of 85.
Born in Detroit, on July 8, 1939, Janet was the eldest of two daughters born to David and Viola Mitchell. From an early age, she displayed strength, compassion, and a commitment to caring for others. When their mother suffered from a stroke, she helped raise her sister, Donna, who often referred to Janet as her "other mother".
After graduating from Birmingham High School, Janet attended the University of Michigan, where she joined a nursing sorority and earned a BS – RN. The legacy of her time at UM stayed with Janet her whole life. She remained good friends with her college roommates, attended reunions, participated in alumni events, and loved UM Football.
Given her experience as a caregiver, it is not surprising that Janet chose a career specializing in treating patients with closed head injuries. As an RN and case manager, her expertise touched the lives of many at Beaumont Hospital in Royal Oak, where she led several departments with unwavering dedication.
As a single mother with a full-time career, Janet's tenacity compelled her to earn a master's degree in counseling from Oakland University, where she met Nelson, the love of her life. They married in December 1988, and enjoyed a life of travel, theater, the arts, and the delicious meals Nelson cooked. (Her children have many memories of the not-very-compelling meals she served when her budget and time were both in short supply.)
An avid reader, Janet founded the Auburn Hills Friends of the Library. She served as a docent at the Cranbrook Museum, and a committed member of her church. Her life was enriched by a deep appreciation for theater, opera, and classical music, which she played on her treasured baby grand piano. She participated in a history group, played bridge, and performed with a piano club. Each of her children emulate Janet's legacy of lifelong learning and community service.
Janet is preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Nelson Phillips; and her sister, Donna Grant-Watters. She is survived by her four children: Jean (Dan) Zott, David (Debbi) Maksymetz, Michael (Heidi) Maksymetz, and Adrienne (Gregory) Kozlowski; stepdaughter Nicole (Brett) Phillips Naylor; eleven grandchildren: Rachel (Mash Alexander) and Jacob Zott; Adam, Troy, and Ross (Molly) Maksymetz, Caleb and Luke Maksymetz, Zachary and Samantha Kozlowski, and Marshall and Quinlan Naylor; one great-grandchild, Macy Harris; and her kitty cat, Gigi.
Visitation is Sunday, April 6, 3:00 - 7:00 PM with a 6:00 PM Scripture Service at Wujek - Calcaterra & Sons Inc., 54880 Van Dyke at 25 Mile Rd. Funeral viewing is on Monday, April 7 from 9:30 AM until the funeral Mass at 10:00 AM at St. Kieran Catholic Church, 53600 Mound Rd, Shelby Twp, MI. Interment at WhiteChapel Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to the Michigan Humane Society and the Alzheimer's Association Greater Michigan Chapter. Please share memories with the family at their "On - Line Guestbook" at WujekCalcaterra.com