In Loving Memory of Janet Elaine Shadowen
March 14, 1953 – January 16, 2025
It is with profound sadness and heavy hearts that we announce the peaceful passing of Janet Elaine Shadowen, known to all as Jan. She left this world on Thursday, January 16th, 2025, at 6:35 p.m., surrounded by her loving husband and devoted family and the love they carried for her. She was 71 years young.
Born on March 14, 1953, in Christopher, Illinois, Jan was the cherished daughter of Gladys Moore and James Travelstead and grew up in West Frankfort, Illinois. Jan’s life was a tapestry of love, faith, and kindness. She possessed an unmatched strength, a compassionate heart, and an enduring faith that guided her every step.
Jan was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, aunt and friend who found joy in the simplest things—cooking, photography, and the laughter of her loved ones. Her cookbooks overflow with recipes seasoned with love, and her photo albums, filled with memories of family and friends, tell the story of a life lived fully and beautifully.
She is survived by her loving husband of 55 years, Marty Shadowen; her daughter, Tracey Shadowen-Fryar, Tracey’s husband Terry and her son, Jason Shadowen and his wife Shayna; and her adoring grandchildren, Lexi, Austin, Isaiah, and Noni. She also leaves behind her brother Edwin Travelstead and a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins. She is preceded in death by her mother Gladys, stepfather Carl, father James, her sisters Velma Bellee, Geraldine Shriver, and Carole Evrard, and two infant brothers David Travelstead and Ronnie Travelstead.
Jan’s family takes comfort in knowing she is reunited with loved ones who passed before her and is now at peace, resting in Heaven. Her unwavering faith and her favorite scripture, Proverbs 17:22, “A merry heart doeth good like a medicine,” were constant sources of comfort and strength, even in her hardest days.
In her final moments, Jan’s family played the music of her favorite artist, Neal McCoy, bringing her joy and serenity. Her journey was one of courage and grace, teaching everyone who knew her what it means to live a life filled with love and gratitude.
A celebration of Jan’s life will be held at Morton & Johnston Funeral Home, 410 South Main Street, Benton, Illinois on Sunday, January 19th, 2025. Visitation will be from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. with Funeral services starting at 2 p.m. and cemetery services immediately following at Denning Cemetery in West Frankfort IL. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Fires of Revival Ministry in Benton Illinois in her memory.
Jan will forever be remembered for her laughter, her enduring faith, and the light she brought into every room. Her legacy of love and kindness will live on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know her.
Rest easy, Jan. You were deeply loved and will be missed beyond words. Your love and light will remain with us always.
For more information or to send online condolences please visit www.mortonjohnstonfuneralhome.com
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