Janet Louise Hayes

Janet Louise (Knapp) Hayes, 83, of Edinboro, peacefully passed away on Sunday, July 28, 2024, at UPMC Hamot following a brief hospitalization. She was born in Edinboro on June 30, 1941, to the late Glenn and Faye Knapp.

Janet spent her entire life in Edinboro, a town she deeply loved and contributed to in many meaningful ways. After graduating from the University of Cincinnati, Janet dedicated over 30 years to Edinboro University, where her commitment and professionalism were greatly valued.

Her involvement in the Edinboro community extended well beyond her professional career. Janet was an active and beloved member of the Edinboro United Methodist Church, where she contributed her musical talents as a pianist and organist. She was also a dedicated member of the Women’s organization, the church choir, and the quilting club. Janet’s love for music was a defining part of her life, and her performances on the French horn, piano, and organ brought joy to many.

In addition to her church activities, Janet was a vibrant participant in numerous local organizations. She was a member of the Edinboro Shadbush Club, the Edinboro chapter of the Red Hat Ladies Club, the Edinboro Historical Society, and the Edinboro Senior Citizens Club. Her commitment to these groups and her enthusiastic participation were a testament to her dedication to community life.

Janet’s adventurous spirit took her around the world, with memorable travels to places such as Hawaii, Australia, London, and Alaska. She cherished her time as a snowbird in Florida, where she enjoyed the warmth and sun during the colder months.

In her later years, Janet was lovingly cared for at Forestview Skilled Nursing Center in Erie, Pennsylvania, where she was cherished by both staff and fellow residents.

Janet was preceded in death by her sister, Gwendolyn Rexford. She is survived by her daughter, Connie (Keith) Henderson; her son, Stephen (Jennifer) Hayes; four grandchildren, Holly (Scott) Weaver, Jamie Henderson, Cody (Helen) Hayes, and Cory (Shannon) Hayes; and six great-grandchildren, Bodhi and Zoey Weaver, Colt and Connor Hayes, and Colbie and Clay Hayes. She is also survived by her brother-in-law, Carl Rexford and many nieces and nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews, and great-great-nieces, all of whom held a special place in her heart.

Friends are invited to gather at the Glunt Funeral Home and Crematory, Inc., 210 Erie Street, Edinboro, PA, on Thursday, August 1, 2024, from 6 - 8 pm. A funeral service will be held at the Edinboro United Methodist Church, 113 High St., Edinboro, PA 16412 on Friday, August 2nd at 11am. Burial will be Private in Edinboro Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Janet’s name to the Edinboro United Methodist Church Music Fund or to a charity of your choice. To send condolences, please visit www.gluntfuneralhome.com

Janet’s legacy of kindness, creativity, and dedication to her community will continue to inspire all who were fortunate enough to know her. Her memory will remain a cherished part of our hearts.