May 6, 1934 ~ January 18, 2026 (age 91)
Janeth Elaine Parker Stearns peacefully entered into the loving presence of her Heavenly Father on Sunday, January 18, 2026, at the age of 91. A woman of deep and unwavering faith, Janeth lived a life defined by love. Love for God, love for her family and friends, and love for all those she was blessed to teach and serve. She was a cherished wife, mother, grandmother, friend, and educator. Her legacy will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew her.
Janeth was born on May 6, 1934, in Waycross, Georgia. She graduated from the Georgia State College for Women in Milledgeville, Georgia. She devoted 35 years of her life to teaching elementary school in Florida, Georgia, and Alabama shaping young minds with patience, kindness, and a quiet strength that reflected her faith.
On February 6, 1976, Janeth married the love of her life, Fred Stearns, with whom she shared 48 years of marriage. Fred affectionately called Janeth his “Angel,” a name that all who knew her would agree suited her perfectly.
Janeth’s life was firmly rooted in her faith in God. Through every season, she leaned on Him with grace and trust, freely sharing kindness and compassion with others. She was a faithful and devoted member of Emmanuel Episcopal Church, where she served on the Altar Guild and lived out her calling to serve with humility and devotion.
Above all else, Janeth’s greatest joy was her family, especially her grandchildren. She was a devoted grandmother who created a magical tradition known as “Granny Camp,” where her grandchildren gathered to enjoy laughter-filled days of games, favorite homemade foods, special outings, and an unforgettable trunk overflowing with dress-up clothes that sparked endless imagination. Granny Camp was more than a place; it was a reflection of Janeth’s love – a haven of warmth, safety, and joy that will live on in cherished memories for generations.
Janeth is survived by her sister, Pamela Brannen (Hoke); children, James Carl Meadows, Catherine Meadows Harris (Sammy), and Robert McLeod Meadows (Celie); her stepsons, Jeffrey Todd Stearns (Sharon) and Bradford Lee Stearns; eight grandchildren, James Meadows, Elizabeth Meadows Greaves, Francie Harris Gillespie, Carly Meadows, Courtney Meadows, Rachel Stearns Hutto, Spencer Jay and JT Stearns; and ten great-grandchildren.
The family extends heartfelt gratitude to Janeth’s caregivers, Laressa, Chantrice, Rudine and Betty, as well as Chattahoochee Hospice and Dr. Brian Rogers, for their compassionate care and support.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Thursday, January 22, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. at Emmanuel Episcopal Church in Opelika, Alabama. Family and friends are invited to gather for a reception immediately following the service in the Fellowship Hall.
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