Janet Jones Zanetti

Janet Jones Zanetti, 89, died peacefully on December 26, 2024, surrounded by the presence and love of her four children. She was preceded in death by her husband of 61 years, Captain Allen G. Zanetti. Janet was born in Blairstown, NJ on August 21, 1935 to Elmer R. Jones and Mildred Linaberry Jones.
Janet graduated magna cum laude from Syracuse University in 1957 with a degree in Special Education. She and Allen were married in that same year. As a Navy wife, she moved her growing family from post to post without complaint as her husband advanced in rank. She earned the Military Wife of the Year award in 1972 while stationed in Mechanicsburg, PA.
After her children were grown, Janet returned to school to further her passion to serve children through education, eventually earning an MEd (1980), EdS (1989), and EdD (1996) from the College of William & Mary. She became certified as a school counselor in 1990 and earned her Licensed Professional Counselor certification (LPN) in 1991. She worked as a school counselor for Alanton Elementary School in Virginia Beach and also for The Pendleton Child Service Center. Janet taught as an Adjunct Instructor at Old Dominion University from 1993-1997.
Janet was an active member of Virginia Beach Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), serving for a time in church leadership as an elder. Gifted with a beautiful soprano voice, she was a member of the choir for many years. She also volunteered with summer Vacation Bible School and the church food pantry. With her husband, she volunteered many years with Meals on Wheels.
Janet is survived by four children: Lisa Zanetti, Leslie Zanetti Schorr (husband Thomas Schorr), Susan Zanetti Harrison (husband Richard Harrison), and Steven Zanetti (wife Dolores Zanetti). She is also survived by eleven grandchildren: Rebecca Kravitz (husband Richard Hickey), Stephanie Kravitz, Matthew Schorr (wife Amy Schorr), Timothy Schorr (wife Julia Canney), Kelly Schorr, Will Harrison, Mitch Harrison, Emma Harrison, Carmen Zanetti, Annamaria Zanetti, and Joey Zanetti (fiancé Ariel Wyant). She is also survived by one great-grandson, Anthony Schorr, son of Matthew and Amy Schorr.
Jan will be remembered for her friendly nature, unfailing graciousness, and generous spirit, and she will be deeply missed by all who loved her.
A Celebration of Life service will be held at the Virginia Beach Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) on Rose Hall Drive on January 25 at 3:00, with a reception following at the church.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Jan's honor to the Virginia Beach Christian Church and choir.