Janet Lindsay Matthews

Sep 6, 1962 -

Mar 11, 2022

Janet Matthews, "Jan" to her friends, passed away on March 11, 2022, at her home in Anchorage, Alaska. She was born to Emily Hill and Thomas Luke Matthews on Sept. 6, 1962, in Princeton, N.J.

After spending her early years in New Jersey, Jan moved with her parents and siblings to Kentfield, Calif., in 1972. There, she started her career as a bookkeeper after high school. More significantly, she honed her passion for music and movies. After several visits to family in Alaska, Jan moved to Anchorage in 1992.

Almost immediately upon her arrival, Jan found her calling with a local chapter of Sweet Adaline's International, a chorus of singers dedicated to the art of barbershop harmony. For most of the next 30 years, Jan was a devoted member of Alaska Sound Celebration, and before that the Anchorage Sourdough Chorus. She also held several positions in chorus management. The chorus was a major part of Jan's life, and she leaves behind many friends and companions.

Jan also loved her cats. She brought Samantha north to Anchorage with her. Later, she was a friend and companion to TC, Daisey and Chance. Jan was also a consummate Christmas elf. Christmas decorations regularly adorned her house until the snow melted. She thought nothing of playing or singing Christmas carols in July.

Jan was also devoted to her family. She was preceded in death by her parents, Emily Hill and Thomas L. Matthews. She is survived by her sister, Elizabeth Chapman (Rick) of Penryn, Calif.; brother, Thomas Matthews (Jane) of Anchorage; niece and nephew, Charles Matthews of Washington, D.C., and Elizabeth Matthews Parry (William) of Anchorage; uncle, Charles Hill III of Florida; and many cousins.

A Celebration of Life is planned for 4:30 p.m., on July 6, 2022, at O'Malley's on the Green.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Jan's honor to a favorite charity.