Janell Danford Pettis

Janell Danford Pettis, a beloved mother, sister, grandmother, and friend, peacefully passed away on October 26, 2023, in Tyler, Texas, at the age of 77. She was born on August 6, 1946, in Dothan, Alabama, to her loving parents, Clemie O’Dell Danford and Luanzy Lee Cherry.

Janell's life was a tapestry of experiences and love, spanning across the states of Alabama and Florida. In 1964, she married the love of her life, Edward Pettis, and together, they embarked on a journey that led them to Jacksonville and Plant City, Florida. Janell was a dedicated worker in the service industry, first as a waitress and later as a co-owner of a restaurant, dedicating over 30 years of her life to serving others. Later in life, she embraced her role as a homemaker, caring for her family with love and dedication. She held strong to her Christian faith, which served as a source of inspiration and comfort throughout her life.

Janell was known for her unwavering commitment to her family. She had a strict and stern demeanor, but it was always underscored by her profound fairness and boundless love for her family. Her memory will live on in the hearts of all those who were fortunate enough to know her.

She is preceded in death by her parents; son, Edwin Pettis; sisters, Barbara Underwood, Carolyn Jones and Judy Sweat.

Janell is survived by her children and their spouses: Eric Zeller and wife Elizabeth of Bonham, Texas, Wanda Fleming of Henderson, Texas, and Linda Vazquez and husband Daniel of Everman, Texas. She is also survived by her brothers, Buford Danford from Lady Lake, Florida, and Max Danford and wife Gina of Gainesville, Florida. Janell's legacy is further carried on by her grandchildren: Troy Siggers, Jonathan Pettis, Diana Perez, Britney Wilson, and Ashley Gonzalez. She was also blessed with seventeen great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild.

A funeral service to celebrate Janell's life will be held at Hiett's LyBrand Funeral Home in Wills Point, Texas, on Friday, November 3, 2023, at 2:00 PM. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service, providing an opportunity for friends and family to pay their respects and share fond memories of Janell.

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