Janet F. Keener

Janet F. Keener, 88, of West Alexander, PA, passed away peacefully at her home on October 24, 2026, following a long and courageous battle with dementia.

Janet was born on May 21, 1938, in Carnegie, PA, the daughter of the late Peter Houy and Eleanor (Rothwell) Houy. She was one of six children and grew up surrounded by family. On October 28, 1958, she married the love of her life, Russell Keener, who preceded her in death on November 12, 2003. After nearly ten years of marriage, Janet and Russ began their family. As Janet affectionately told him, “You got a farm, now I get a family!” This playful remark perfectly captured Janet’s spirited personality and her love for the family they built together.

Although Janet began life as a city girl, she embraced country living and became a hardworking farm wife who truly loved everything about life on the farm. From caring for the animals and tending to her garden to spending time in the kitchen cooking and baking, Janet found happiness in the simple pleasures of country life. She poured her heart into her home and family, creating a warm, welcoming place where everyone felt loved.

One of Janet’s greatest joys was baking. Her kitchen was often filled with the comforting aroma of freshly baked cookies, which she happily shared with family and friends. Each holiday season, she embarked on an impressive cookie-baking marathon, producing batch after batch of homemade treats. Her baking became so well loved that she even sold her cookies, spreading a little sweetness far beyond her own kitchen.

Family gatherings were especially dear to Janet, and she had a remarkable ability to bring laughter and energy wherever she went. Known affectionately as “Crazy Aunt Janet,” she was the life of the party and never missed an opportunity to make those around her smile. Her fun-loving spirit, larger-than-life personality, and love for being surrounded by family created countless memories that will be treasured for years to come.

Janet also had a special love for decorating for the holidays, particularly Christmas. She transformed her entire home into a Christmas wonderland, filling every corner with festive decorations and holiday cheer. Her Christmas displays were so grand that the magic often lingered well past the New Year. For Janet, the holidays were about more than decorations and traditions; they were about bringing people together and making memories with the people she loved most.

Janet will be lovingly remembered by her two beloved children, Christopher Keener and Heather King and her husband, Kenneth. Her legacy of love continues through her three grandchildren, Abigail Kelley and her husband, Christopher; Eben King and his partner, Chelsey; and Makenzee King. She is also survived by her three great-grandchildren, Amelia Kelley, Emerson Kelley, and Addison Kelley, with another great-granddaughter on the way, bringing even more joy to the family she cherished so deeply.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the team at Amedisys, especially Etta Main, Donna Naser, Shyanna Scholato, Clare Denne, and Jessica Vance. Their kindness, compassion, and exceptional care meant more to the family than words can express. The family is especially grateful for the love and attention they gave Janet, noting that these wonderful caregivers became more than a care team; they became part of the family.

In accordance with Janet’s wishes, there will be no public visitation.

Arrangements have been entrusted to William G. Neal Funeral Homes, Ltd., Washington.