Janet Arlene Pignataro, age 79, of The Villages, Florida, passed away peacefully on April 19, 2026, in Leesburg, Florida. Born on March 19, 1947, in Schenectady, New York, Janet lived a life centered on faith, family, and service to others.

Janet dedicated much of her life to education, working primarily as a kindergarten teacher, where she touched the lives of countless young students with her kindness, patience, and nurturing spirit. Beyond her career, she was deeply devoted to her faith community. She was a member of St. Timothy Catholic Church in Lady Lake, Florida, and a former member of St. James the Apostle Catholic Church in McDonough, Georgia. She served faithfully on church committees and lovingly made rosaries for her parish.

Janet was especially proud of her involvement with the Lions Club of McDonough/Lake Sumter, where she exemplified a true spirit of service. She was honored as a Melvin Jones Fellow, one of the highest forms of recognition within Lions Clubs International, reflecting her exceptional dedication to humanitarian service and her lasting impact on the community. She valued the friendships and purpose she found through the organization, and it remained an important and meaningful part of her life.

In her free time, Janet enjoyed solving puzzles, creating glass dot art, crocheting, knitting, and most importantly, spending cherished time with her family.

Janet is survived by her loving husband, Patrick James Pignataro; her stepchildren, Joel (Natalie) Pignataro and Ethan (Leslie) Pignataro; her son-in-law, Patrick Schaffer; her grandchildren, W. Alexander Schaffer, Luke Pignataro, and Lauryn Pignataro; her brothers-in-law, Elvis (Carol) Cupp and Phil (Pat) Hurley; and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her beloved daughter, Shonda Schaffer.

A woman of deep faith, compassion, and creativity, Janet will be remembered for her gentle spirit, her devotion to her church, her dedication to service, and the love she shared with everyone around her.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Timothy Catholic Church in Lady Lake, Florida, on Tuesday, May 5, 2026, at 10:00 AM. A second service will take place at St. James the Apostle Catholic Church in McDonough, Georgia, on Tuesday, May 12, 2026, at 11:00 AM. A reception will follow the Georgia service.

Following the reception, family and friends are invited to gather at Honey Creek Woodlands, 2:30PM, 2625 Highway 212 SW, Conyers, Georgia 30094

Janet’s life was a beautiful reflection of faith, love, and service, and she will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

In lieu of flowers, Donations can be made to lionsclubs.org