Janet Lee Smith

Janet Lee Smith, born on August 7, 1937, in the Chicago area, passed away on November 23, 2025, at the age of 88.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated 11:00 AM, Tuesday, December 2, 2025, at Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church, 5 St. Teresa, Drive, Charleston. The Rite of Committal will follow at Live Oak Memorial Gardens, 3093 Ashley River Road, Charleston.

A devoted Christian, Janet was raised in the Presbyterian church and later found a home in the Catholic faith. She drew strength from her faith in the Lord. Her faith in God got her through many tough times. Because of her faith, we know that Janet is in Heaven celebrating her Eternal Life. She was known for her remarkable talent as a seamstress, owning and operating her beloved alteration shop, Jan's Alterations, where she created lasting memories with countless customers.

Throughout her life, Janet enjoyed painting and immersing herself in the pages of captivating books. She had a deep appreciation for nature. Her favorite flowers included roses, orchids and petunias. Janet also took great joy in decorating her home with family photos and floral pictures, showcasing her loving spirit. The Christmas season was particularly special to her; each year, she eagerly set up an enormous lighted Christmas village, starting in October, which brought delight to those around her.

A devoted sports fan, Janet cherished her Chicago roots and was a loyal supporter of the Chicago Cubs and Chicago Bears. Later in life, she also became a Florida Gators football fan. In 1993, she met the love of her life, Ron, at her alteration shop, and together they created a deep and enduring partnership.

Janet is survived by her loving husband of nearly 31 years, Ronald Smith; her daughter, Sandra Mann and husband Douglas; her son, Scott Cummings; her son, Brian Cummings and wife Clara; daughters of her heart, Rhonda Smith and Teresa LaTorre and husband Bubba; grandchildren, Matthew Cummings, Ian Cummings, Mark Cummings, Jessica Mann, Matthew LaTorre and Megan McManus; and numerous great-grandchildren.

Janet's warm spirit will be greatly missed but fondly remembered by all who knew her. Janet was preceded in death by: her parents Henry McIlwaine and Lillian McIlwaine; and sister Carol Fischer.

Arrangements by James A. McAlister, Inc. (843) 766-1365.

If you plan to send flowers, we highly suggest using a local florist instead of ordering from an online vendor. Charleston has many. Kindly ask your florist to deliver all flowers to the funeral home between 9 AM and 3 PM, Monday, December 1st.