Joe Janes

Joseph "Joe" Anton Janes II, age 101, of Qulin, Missouri, passed away on Thursday, March 26, 2026, at Winchester Place in Bernie, Missouri. Mr. Janes was born Feb. 4, 1925, in Cleveland, Ohio, son of the late Joseph Anton Sr and Annaka Janes (Safar).

Joe was highly involved and respected in the community. He was known for his ambition, generosity, and willingness to offer help wherever there was a need. He also took great pride in finding, purchasing, and operating local businesses. In 1948, he purchased a drug store in Qulin, which he and his late wife owned and operated until 1968. He also owned and operated a gas station on Highway 53, a fertilizer plant, and farmland. In 1958, he joined the Qulin Lions Club and was the longest living member. He served on several boards over the years, including the Qulin Nutrition Board, Sheltered Workshop Board, and Ozark Border Board. He was also a Woodman of the World. His family was named Farm Family of the Year by the University of Missouri Extension Service.

Despite all of his great achievements and accomplishments, nothing brought more pride and joy to Joe than his family.

On July 17, 1948, he married Sara Janes (Magruder). She preceded him in death on Sept. 14, 1999. On Aug. 7, 2022, he married Cora Janes. She preceded him in death on Sept. 8, 2022. He is survived by two children: Bob Janes of Qulin, MO and Ron & Sherry Janes of Poplar Bluff, MO; one stepdaughter: Sandy (Kevin) Sheridan of Fairview Heights, IL; ten grandchildren: Joe Janes, IV, Nicci Wangerin, Randy Janes, Rick Janes, Tabitha Thomas, Drew Janes, Scott Janes, Dylan Janes, Shelby Talburt, and Ashley Maddock; 21 great-grandchildren; 3 great-great grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents and wives, Joe was also preceded in death by two sons: Joseph Anton "Tony" Janes III and Mike Janes; one grandson: Jamie Ferrill; and one sister: Lillie Breckenridge.

Visitation will begin at 6 p.m. on Monday, March 30, 2026, at White-Sanders Funeral Home in Fisk. Funeral services will be at 10:00 AM on Tuesday in the funeral home chapel. Burial will follow at Memorial Gardens in Poplar Bluff. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Oakes Nutrition Center in Qulin, Qulin Lions Club, or Qulin Volunteer Fire Department. Condolences: www.whitesandersfuneralhome.com

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