It is with great sadness that the family of Janet L (Worthington) Valentyn announces her passing on November 10, 2023. A long time resident of Medford, Janet was the beloved wife of Robert W. Valentyn for more than 73 years. Born in Cleveland, Ohio, she was the youngest daughter of the late Carmi and Charlene (Gallagher) Worthington and sister to the late Dolores Clark and Shirley Bissell.
Janet met Bob at a roller skating rink near McDill Air Force Base in Florida where he was stationed. "Some Enchanted Evening" became their song. It was love at first sight and soon Janet became Bob's everything. After they were married, they made their home in Medford. Janet enjoyed sitting with her sweetheart, soaking up the sunshine on their front porch swing. Always together, they were well known for walking hand in hand around the city. Every day was Valentyn's Day. Losing her has caused an immeasurable hole in his heart and ours.
Janet was a caring, supportive and playful woman who devoted her entire life to her husband, children (7), grandchildren (12) and great grandchildren (11). She gathered her family for the holidays, birthdays or just-because occasions. Her home spoke of her whimsy and good taste. It was a warm and beautiful place to be. Janet created gorgeous quilts, all hand sewn jewels of art. She enjoyed antiquing, window shopping, and browsing among the crowds. Janet and Bob were an integral part of their children's lives. Together, the family embarked on many adventures, usually involving car rides, camping, visiting relatives or national historical sites, traveling locally or across the entire country, all of which gifted us many wonderful memories.
Affectionately known as Grandma and Grampy, they were consistently present at their grandchildrens' recitals, sports games, and awards nights. Janet was their biggest cheerleader and her love was unconditional. Holding, hugging and singing to their grandchildren and great grandchildren melted our hearts.
Janet leaves her adoring husband, Bob, and her devoted children, who will continue to honor her spirit: Christine (Richard) Collins, Donna (Frederick) Laskey, Kathleen Valentyn, John (Linnea) Valentyn, and Jennifer Valentyn. She was predeceased by their infant son, Robert W. Valentyn, Jr. and daughter Theresa Valentyn.
She also leaves her cherished grandchildren who were so blessed to call her Grandma: Daniel (Anita) Laskey, Jacqueline (Jon Matthew Chonko) Collins, Brendan (Megan Miller) Collins, Matthew (Kerri) Laskey, Julie (Kenny) Hoyt, Siobhan (Luke) Deary, Geoffrey (Sarah Whisnant) Laskey, Morgan (Luke) Coughenour, Lauren Laskey, Alyssa Valentyn, Jillian Valentyn, and Graeme Bagley, as well as her beloved great grandchildren, Shane and Ryan Hoyt, Nathan, Jack, Aiden, Hudson, and Owen Laskey, Iona Collins, Griffin Chonko, Elowyn Deary, and Ellis Coughenour. Janet also leaves numerous nieces and nephews, many located across the country, as well as good friends and neighbors.
The family will gather for a private memorial service at a later time.