Janet Nevins

Janet Marie Olmstead Nevins, a beloved member of the Marshalltown, Iowa community, passed away peacefully on August 13, 2024, from natural causes. She was loved by many and will be deeply missed.

Born to Clifford Wayne Olmstead and Florance Eich, Janet’s life was a tapestry woven with love, laughter, and connection. She leaves behind her cherished family, including her sons, Matthew Nevins, his wife April, their children, Norah, and Ella, and Marshall Nevins, his wife Alicia Silk, and their child Hudson Glasnevin Silk. Janet is also survived by her brother, Galen Olmsted of Montana, a special cousin, Richard Stanley from California, and her dear friend, Sandy Gowdy, who was not just a sister in spirit but a true companion in life.

Janet graduated from Marshalltown High School in 1971 before pursuing her higher education at the University of Northern Iowa, where she graduated in 1976. Her heart was dedicated to education, serving the Marshalltown Community School District for 27 years as an educator at Rogers Elementary. With her passion for teaching, she inspired countless students, instilling in them not only knowledge but also a sense of curiosity and a love for learning.

A true conversationalist, Janet thrived on finding connections among people. Her big heart encompassed many interests, reading ebooks on her Kindle. She loved gathering with a group of high school friends and also a group of retired Rogers teachers. Glenwood Place was a source of many new friends and also a reconnection of old acquaintances.

Janet was preceded in death by numerous relatives and close friends, but her spirit will live on through the memories she created and the lives she touched. Her laughter, kindness, and warmth will always be remembered by those who had the privilege of knowing her.

In celebrating Janet’s life, let us remember her zest for connecting people, her dedication to education, and the love she shared so freely. She remains a shining light in our hearts, a testament to the beauty of community and compassion.

-lovingly written by the family