Nancy Janel Brown passed away on October 30, 2026, at the age of 82. Born July 16, 1944 in Goldthwaite, TX, Janel lived a life filled with love, compassion for others, and great devotion to her family.

Janel met Dan, the love of her life, in the city of Winters, TX and they were married in 1963. Transferring with Dan’s job, they moved to Kilgore, TX in 1972, where they built a beautiful life and were married for 63 years. Together they cherished a life filled with love, laughter and the joy of raising a family.

Janel graduated from Winters High School in 1962. Though not afforded the opportunity to attend college, she spent her career in the accounting field and retired from Brown, Bronstad, Habenicht and Rosson as an accountant assistant.

Janel is preceded in death by her parents Hans and Joyce Gerhart. She is survived by her four sisters; Carolyn Roach & husband Don, Kleta J. Gerhart, Barbara Kay Sanders & husband Wes, Ginger Bailey & husband Wayne.

Janel’s legacy will be carried on by her children Kathy Brown of Kilgore, TX and Julie Ridgeway of Brock, TX & her husband Keith. Her adored grandchildren Justin Ridgeway and Colton Ridgeway & his wife Rea and their great-grandchildren Madelyn, Avery and Waylon. Each of them will remember their “lovingly known as Gigi”, for the endless amount of love she gave and for being one of their greatest supporters.

An avid reader, Janel found great joy in a good book. One of Janel’s greatest passions was her love of gardening. She spent countless hours tending to her yard and garden. She had a deep appreciation for nature and found solace in getting her hands dirty. Her flowerbeds and garden were her sanctuary where she could escape the stresses of everyday life, and also provide vegetables for her family and friends.

Janel’s story is one of dedication, love and unwavering commitment to her family and friends. She will be deeply missed, but the seeds she planted in the hearts of those who knew her will continue to grow and flourish for generations to come.

A memorial to celebrate Janel’s life will be held at St. Luke's Methodist Church, Kilgore, TX on Saturday, November 14, 2026, at 2:00pm. Words of remembrance will be shared by Pastor Kelly Inman and her daughter, Julie Ridgeway.

In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting donations be made to the American Cancer Society in her honor.