Dr. Janet Wiig Bedford

1935 - 2025

Dr. Janet Wiig Bedford

September 24, 1935 - September 6, 2025

Dr. Janet Wiig Bedford, 89, passed away on Saturday, September 6, 2025 at Carle Hospital, Urbana.

Janet was born on September 24, 1935, in Rochester, N.Y., a daughter of Edwin and Gladys Wiig. She married her college sweetheart, Russell Bedford, in Rochester, N.Y. They met in the marching band at the University of Connecticut, where he was the drum major and she played the flute. She received her BA in elementary education from the University of Michigan, her MA in educational administration in educational media from the University of Nebraska, and her PhD in higher education administration with an emphasis in technology from Illinois State University.

She began her career teaching kindergarten, before becoming an elementary school librarian and media specialist. She taught media communication and children's literature at Illinois Wesleyan University, as well as heading media services for the university. She then went on to become co-director of instructional technology services at San Diego State University. She was the first woman elected chair of the California State University Media Administrators, and was a well-respected expert in her field.

Upon retirement, she and Russ traveled the world, exploring Africa, Australia, Antarctica, and her ancestral homeland of Norway. She was an accomplished musician, playing piano and flute throughout her life. Along with her husband, a professional bassoonist, she was a strong supporter of the arts in her community. Together they founded scholarships in education administration and music at ISU. Janet loved the outdoors and spent time hiking and sailing throughout the country. She had a strong sense of adventure, forever seeking out new places and experiences. She was a loving wife and mother, and loved spending time with her large family.

She is survived by her two children, Russell (Chris) Bedford IV, and Penny (Paul) Eckley; three grandchildren, Heather (Vince Martinez) Bedford, Rachel (DeCoda) Burris, and Tessa Eckley; and 8 great-grandchildren, Diana, Colton, Cayson, Kylee, Maycee, Amaya, Connor, and Coralyn. She was preceded in death by her husband; a great-grandson, James; and her brothers, Robert and Donald.

In accordance with her wishes, she will be cremated and will be buried in a private ceremony at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Dr. Janet W. Bedford Scholarship in Education Administration Foundations Fund 590-6002.

Condolences may be offered at www.owensfuneralhomes.com