Janet Ellen Fox Henderson (82) of Teutopolis

Family and friends are mourning the loss of Janet Ellen Fox Henderson, a woman whose life was defined by love, dedication, and a deep commitment to the well-being and education of children. Janet passed away on May 15, 2023, leaving behind a profound impact on her family and the lives of countless younger learners.

Born on November 25, 1940, in Sparta, Illinois, Janet’s journey led her to become a devoted wife and mother. As her children grew older, Janet embarked on a mid-life career as a Kindergarten teacher, a role that perfectly aligned with her nurturing nature and passion for early childhood education. She dedicated herself to shaping young minds, imparting knowledge, and fostering a love for learning.

For 11 years, Janet taught at the Early Learning Center in Effingham, where her kindness and devotion created a nurturing environment for her students. Her impact extended far beyond the classroom walls, as she touched the lives of countless children, helping them lay a strong foundation for their futures.

Even after her official retirement, Janet’s dedication to education remained steadfast. She continued to contribute her time and expertise as a devoted volunteer, sharing her unwavering passion with the next generation of teachers and their students.

Of course, her love for children was felt deeply by her grandkids and great-grandkids. Her deepest joy was spending time with her “grands”, reading them a book or showing them how to work a puzzle.

Janet’s faith was a cornerstone of her life, and she found solace and strength within the walls of the First Presbyterian Church in Effingham. As a devoted member for over 50 years, Janet’s presence was felt in the church community. She spent many joyful years singing in the choir, lending her voice to the beautiful hymns and anthems that enriched the worship experience. One of her favorite traditions was participating in the annual Easter Cantata. She loved singing in harmony with those around her, creating joy and celebration in shared-song.

Janet and her beloved husband of 63 years, Roger, also found fulfillment in giving back to their community through volunteering. They dedicated time and energy in various ways to the church and to The Cross Visitors Center in Effingham, welcoming and guiding visitors with warmth and grace. Their generosity and hospitality left an indelible impression on all those they encountered.

Janet Ellen Henderson’s departure leaves a void in the hearts of her family, friends, and community, but her legacy of love, dedication, and service will forever inspire those who follow in her footsteps. Her contributions to early childhood education and her unwavering commitment to her faith and community will continue to make a difference in the lives of many.

The family will receive visitors at Johnson Funeral Home in Effingham on Sunday, May 21, 4:00 pm - 7:00 pm and 9:30 am - 10:30 am on Monday, May 22. A memorial service to honor Janet’s life and legacy will also be held at the funeral home on Monday, May 22, 10:30 am, followed by a graveside service at St. Francis Cemetery in Teutopolis and a luncheon at the Sister Ethelbert Center behind St. Francis Church.

Janet requested that anyone wishing to remember her or honor her life and legacy make a donation in her name to the Effingham Early Learning Center. The family also encourages donations to Fear Nothing! who were very supportive during Mom’s journey with cancer or the Glioblastoma Foundation to fund research, so that someday, there can be a cure for this devastating cancer.

Janet is survived by her husband, Roger Henderson; children - Collin Henderson, Nacogdoches, TX; Craig (Georgia) Henderson, Toledo, IL; Shannon (Mike) Hinkle, Teutopolis, IL; and Erin (Bill) Braasch, Asheville, NC; her siblings - Rita Beck, Effingham, Wayne Fox, Jacksonville, FL and Jon Fox, Clovis, CA; her step-siblings - Ed Higgerson, Sparta, IL and Karen Lewis, Warrenton, MO; and her 8 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Dewayne Fox and Marjorie Parsons Fox and her brother, Gene Fox.