Janis Ann Cantrell

On the morning of November 18, 2017 our beloved Mother was lifted gently and peacefully to heaven surrounded by all her children. Janis was born on November 6, 1930 to Mary Alice and Francis Arthur Smith at the family home on State Line Road. The youngest of 7, Janis was cherished by all her doting brothers and sisters. She was a true bright spot for the family during the very difficult depression years. Many of Janiss fond memories and friends were formed in her grade school and high school years at Our Lady of Good Counsel and Lillis High School (Class of 1948). After graduation, Janis found employment and the love of her life at the Sears Country Club Plaza location. Janis delighted in recounting the story of how she met William Rodney "Bill" Cantrell, she as a clerk in the linens department and he as a salesman in the window blinds area. They were married on February 3, 1951 and all could see the love and joy in their marriage bond. They lovingly welcomed 5 children into the world: Jane Brant (Pat), Julie Douglas (John), Jeanne Smith (Frank), Beth Lucas (Chris) and John Cantrell (Barbara). Blessings continued with the addition of 15 grandchildren and 8 great grandchildren.
Janis had a deep love of family and was admired by all her children, grands, great grands and nieces and nephews for her kindness, compassion, warmth and charm. She will be greatly missed by all. Janis was also a very talented quilter, artist and gardener. One of her quilts was discovered by Hallmark Cards, resulting in a best-selling note card. Other pastimes included golf games at Swope Park (more laughs than holes in one) and the thrill of the hunt at garage and estate sales. In her later years, Janis split her time between a home in Phoenix and her Leawood residence, retiring to Phoenix in 2013.



SERVICES Visitation
Friday, November 24, 2017 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Muehlebach Funeral Care 6800 Troost Avenue Kansas City, Missouri 64131
Mass of Christian Burial
Saturday, November 25, 2017 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Cure of Ars Catholic Church 9401 Mission Road Leawood, Kansas 66206
Interment
Saturday, November 25, 2017 11:45 AM
Calvary Cemetery 6901 Troost Avenue Kansas City, MO 64131