Janet Smith Hedges was born on March 5, 1945, and has peacefully entered eternal rest on December 9, 2024, in Cape Coral, Florida, surrounded by her loving family. She was born and raised in Island, Kentucky.

She is preceded in death by parents; Chester Newman and Helen Mae Smith; brothers, Roy Vineyard and Donald Eugene; and sister, Dorotha Lee (Smith) Davis.

She is survived by her husband of 60 years, Donald Lee Hedges; children, Doug Hedges (Jennifer) of Springfield, Missouri, Angela Laffoon of Robertsville, Missouri, and Andrew Hedges (Susan) of Cape Corral, Florida; siblings, Chester Jewel of Owensboro, Kentucky, James Robert of Des Moines, Iowa, George Allen Smith of Rumsey, Kentucky, and Connie Jane (Smith) Howard of Buttonsberry, Kentucky; as well as, 11 grandchildren, 4 great-grandchildren, with two on the way, and a host of nieces and nephews.

She met her husband, Donald Lee Hedges, as high school sweethearts and was married August 1, 1964, in Livermore, Kentucky. They just celebrated their 60th anniversary. They lived in the St. Louis, Missouri, area for 57 years before moving to Cape Coral, Florida, four years ago.

Janet had numerous jobs over the years but her most important ones were being a mom and wife. ln her early years she worked printing circuit boards. She worked as a cafeteria lady when Andrew was in middle school. When her children were grown she worked at KinderCare and became a preschool teacher for Fellowship Baptist Church.

A devoted mother, Janet enriched the lives of her three children with unwavering support and love. Her nurturing spirit extended to her 11 grandchildren and four great-grandchildren with each holding a special place in her heart. Her family was her greatest joy, and she took immense pride in their accomplishments and happiness.

Janet's life was a testament to her faith and dedication to her family and church. Her legacy is one of compassion and strength, qualities she imparted to all who knew her.

Her hobbies included needlework, quilting, crocheting, reading, camping, and travel. Together with her husband, they traveled 48 states and 7 countries.

Her life was marked by her commitment to her family and her church, serving as a beacon of light and a source of strength. Her memory will be cherished by her family and friends, who will remember her as a loving mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother.

Her favorite Bible verse was, "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." (Philippians 4:13).

Janet Smith Hedges will be deeply missed, but her love and kindness will remain with us forever, as she rests in the embrace of the Lord. May her soul find peace and her memory be a blessing to all.

Arrangements were made by Baldwin Brothers. There will be a Memorial service at New Hope Church in Cape Coral and another service in High Ridge, Missouri after the holidays.