Janet Marie Stiles

Dec 29, 1944 -

Mar 19, 2026

Janet M. Stiles, 81, passed away peacefully on March 19, 2026, in Anchorage, Alaska. She was born on Dec. 29, 1944, in Woodbury, N.J., to Elbert and Mabel Gaventa. Her siblings Catherine, Ruth and Ed joined the family of six on their Repaupo family farm growing peaches, corn, tomatoes, asparagus and strawberries.

After beginning piano lessons at age 7, she began playing piano in church at age 10 and served as full-time organist and pianist for both Billingsport and Repaupo UMC at the age of 15. A 1963 graduate of Paulsboro High School, Janet pursued her passion for music at Gettysburg College before earning her bachelor's degree in music education from the University of Wisconsin. Her dedication to music became the cornerstone of her career and personal life. For 24 years, she inspired countless students as a classroom music teacher with the Anchorage School District. Earning Teacher of the Year finalist by the Anchorage Education Association in 1987-88 and in 1992, recognized for outstanding service by the Alaska Music Education Association as Music Educator in Alaska. Beyond the elementary classroom, Janet shared her talents as a staff accompanist for the UAA Music Department for two more decades.

Janet's musical gifts were not limited to teaching, they were also an integral part of her faith and art communities. With grace and devotion, her contributions extended into the faith community as she served as a choir and handbell director and accompanist for numerous local churches. Many will remember her dedication to accompanying NATS, directing ASD Honor Choir, co-directing the Arctic Spirit Handbell Choir, involvement with Regional and State Solo and Ensemble competitions, opera, community chorus and directing multiple adult and children's church choirs. She volunteered as an usher for the PAC for 30 years and loved to play at the Anchorage Pioneer Home and Marlow Manor on occasion. Through her gifts, she brought joy and inspiration to those around her.

Janet was known for her quiet humility, patience and generosity. She found joy in traveling, quilting and camping with her family—cherished moments that reflected her deep love for those closest to her. Her grandsons remember a grandma who made their favorite holiday cheese dip, kept a cookie jar full for sleep overs, sewn fleece clothes for lovies and special bed quilts to keep them warm. Her kindness, love and talent left an indelible mark on everyone who had the privilege of knowing her.

Janet is survived by her son, Brian Stiles; daughter, Wendy (Brian Taylor); grandsons, Lewis and Evan (Kayla); sisters, Catherine (Ed) and Ruth (Thom); brother, Ed (Marsha); as well as many beloved cousins, nieces, nephews and their children. She was predeceased by her husband, Bruce; parents, Elbert and Mabel; sisters-in-law, Janet and Sandy; and in-laws, Carl and Katharine.

Janet's legacy is one of faith, musical gifts and an unwavering dedication to her family and service to her community. May her memory bring comfort to all who knew her. Memorial donations can be made in Janet's name to support the Adult and Children's Music Ministry of St. John UMC. https://stjohnanchorage.org/. A memorial service is planned for May 2026 and will be live-streamed.