Janette Jones Nelson

Our beautiful wife, mother, sister, aunt, and friend, Janette Jones Nelson, passed away peacefully on June 19th, after a courageous two-year battle with cancer, surrounded by her husband and three sons, and those whom she loved dearly.

Janette was born on April 14th, 1968, the daughter of Stan and Norma Jones. She grew up in Salt Lake City, the youngest, along with her twin sister Jen, in a family of eight siblings. From an early age she had an independent and determined nature which served her well throughout her life. Janette attended Skyline High School, and later attended the University of Utah, where she was an active member of Kappa Kappa Gamma Sorority.

Janette earned a Special Education degree in Exercise and Sport Science/Adapted P.E., which prepared her for more than just a career. Her son Nicholas was born with Autism, and Janette’s life choices predisposed her to be the best mother and caregiver to him and all of her son’s needs. She was the 1st PTA president for the Carmen B. Pingree Autism Center of Learning, and remained such for many years. She was a passionate defender of her loved ones, and served them unconditionally.

Janette was a devoted wife, mother, sister and friend. She married Greg Nelson on March 9th, 1990 in the Salt Lake LDS Temple. He was her best friend and the love of her life. Her face lit up whenever she saw or spoke of him. Together they loved to travel and were avid Ute fans. They attended many bowl games and enjoyed spending time with each other, whatever the activity. Janette’s other great loves were her three boys Nicholas, Nate and Hayden. She adored and lavished love upon them constantly. Her greatest joy was raising her sons with Greg and she was grateful for the relationships cultivated with each child, along with her daughter-in-law Kate.

Janette had a strong testimony of Jesus Christ and His Gospel. She appreciated opportunities to be of service to others in her family, her church, and amongst her friends. She served as a Relief Society Counselor, Sunday School Teacher, Primary Teacher, Nursery Leader, Librarian, Primary Presidency Counselor, and Young Women’s Counselor. Her most recent and favorite calling was serving as the Young Women’s President. She loved the girls with whom she served and was deeply saddened when she had to be released.

Janette is survived by her husband, Greg – married 32 years: Sons Nicholas, Nate (Kate), and Hayden; siblings Jeanine (Richard) James, Jeffrey (Lisa) Jones, Kevin (Lorie) Jones, Lorraine (Cort) Featherstone, Julie (Robert) Arnold, and Jennifer (Steve) Westlake; in-laws Brain (Mirin) Nelson, Cynthia Knight, Lance Nelson; numerous nieces and nephews. She is proceeded in death by her parents; Stanley and Norma Jones; brother Richard Jones; in-laws Stanton and Marilyn Nelson; sister-in-law Denise Procter; and her beloved dog Baxter (Beagle).

Janette was a treasured, lifelong friend to many, including her extended family. She will be remembered as exceptionally kind and thoughtful-always most concerned about the well-being of others. Her smile and her boisterous laugh were contagious and could light up any room. Her husband Greg fell in love with her irresistible smile and happy nature. She was a friend to everyone and could make anyone feel comfortable and at ease. She fought to the very end, knowing that she would one day succumb to her cancer, but Janette’s tremendous faith enabled her to manage the challenges she faced with extraordinary humility, grace, and courage.

Greg and son's would like to thank:

• Dr. Joe Mendez, Heather, Paula, & all the Huntsman team: for all their kind & compassionate care.
• Kappa Sisters: for the years of love and friendship—keeping her positive and laughing throughout this journey.
• Skyline Class of 86’: for their friendship, love, support, & immense generosity.
• Our close friends & neighbors: for their friendship, service, love, & constant support.
• 24th Ward Family: for their love, service, prayers, & fasting on Janette's behalf.
• Jones & Nelson immediate & extended family: for their never-ending love & support of their sister, aunt, & friend.

In lieu of flowers, donations would be appreciated on behalf of:

The Adult Autism Center of Lifetime Learning

6232 S 900 E

Murray, UT 84124

Huntsman Cancer Institute

 2000 Circle of Hope Dr., Ste 2900

Salt Lake City, UT 84112