Janet Blair Pickering

Janet Blair Pickering, aged 89, of Fairborn, Ohio, passed away on February 17, 2026. Born on April 17, 1936, in Chicago, Illinois, she lived a life that was as vibrant and determined as her feisty spirit, but all the while having the loving, caring side.

Janet had a rewarding career as an Office Manager, where she offered her talents to various apartment complexes throughout her professional life, including Evergreen Terrace, ultimately retiring from Near North Village in Springfield, Illinois. Her dedication to her work was evident, by her ability to connect with both her colleagues and residents.

Her educational journey took place partly in Germany, where she attended school as a child while her father was stationed there. She later furthered her studies at the Sacred Heart Academy in Springfield, Illinois.

An ardent lover of animals, Janet found joy in raising and caring for horses. She also enjoyed playing cards, a pastime that brought her closer to her family and friends.

Janet is survived by her children: Kimberly (John) Livingston, Connie (Henry) Chilton and Jon (Shelley) Goins. Her legacy continues through her grandchildren: Kristine (Robert) Van Meter, John "Doug" Livingston, Jason (Kelli) Livingston, Abigail (John) Wilkinson, Nathan Chilton and Alexander (Pamela) Goins, along with her great-grandchildren: Tyler, Kalleigh, Brandon, Emma, Justinian, Hannah, Thomas, Penelope, and Euphemia. She also leaves behind her sister, Dona (the late Lyle) Strode; her daughter-in-law, Donna Pickering; and many other loving family members and friends.

Janet was preceded in death by her parents, Donald and Hazel MacKinlay; her beloved husband, Charles E. Pickering; her brother, John D. MacKinlay; and her son, Mark Pickering. Her memory will forever remain in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

Donations may be made in her memory to the cat rescue organization of one's choice.

Following with her wishes, services will be held privately by her family in Springfield, Illinois, at a later date.

To share a memory of Janet with her family or to leave a special message, please visit the Guestbook below.

"A mother's love is like a

circle, it has no beginning

and no ending. It keeps

going around and around,

ever expanding, touching

everyone who comes in

contact with it. It engulfs

them like a morning's mist,

warming them like the

noontime sun, and covering

them like a blanket of

evening stars."