A lifelong musician, educator, and devoted member of her community, passed away peacefully on April 16, 2026, at the age of 97.

She was predeceased by her husband, Walter; daughters, Jennifer Keffer & Elizabeth Bush; grandson, Michael Bush. Survived by her children, Ann (Lowell) Dewey, Chris (Diane) Bush, Amy (Charley) Bush & W. Scott Bush; 10 grandchildren, Martha, Sara, Joe, Emily, Taylor, Adam, Aaron, Elizabeth, Hannah and Claudia Lillian; many great-grandchildren.

Born on June 9, 1928, Janet lived a life rooted in discipline, talent, and service. She pursued her passion for music during her college years, attending Ursinus College where she majored in Modern Languages and maintained a remarkable 3.9 GPA, holding the highest academic average in the music department. She was nominated to Phi Beta Kappa and continued her vocal studies at Penn State University studying under Willa Taylor. During this time, she performed extensively, including as a soloist at the baccalaureate service for new Penn State president – Milton Eisenhower, and taught piano to one of her professors’ daughters.

Janet continued her musical training in graduate school, studying voice for four years under George Gillispie. She served as a paid soloist at the Dutch Reformed Church in New Brunswick and performed a major voice recital in 1953. Her dedication to both performance and teaching remained constant throughout these formative years.

After moving to the Rochester area, Janet became deeply involved in church music. She sang with Third Presbyterian Church and Pittsford Presbyterian Church before settling in Victor, New York, where she made a lasting impact. She served as choir director at Victor Presbyterian Church for 12 years, later becoming an elder of the church. She continued her vocal studies with Julius Huehn, head of the Voice Department at the Eastman School of Music and performed as a paid soloist at the Christian Science Church in Canandaigua.

For more than 40 years, Janet taught piano and voice in Victor, shaping generations of students with her high standards, patience, and love of music.

Beyond her musical contributions, Janet was an active and engaged member of her community. She supported the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra, serving on board’s and contributing to its Finger Lakes concerts. She was involved in the early efforts of Ganondagan State Historic Site, worked with the local Historic Preservation Board, and gave her time and leadership in many meaningful ways.

Services will be held privately. In lieu of flowers donation may be made to Vienna Gardens Independent Senior Living (144 East Main Street, Phelps, NY 14532).

NOTE: Donations should be payable to Tri City Retirement in Janet’s memory