Janet L. Woodard

Janet L. Woodard, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and dear friend, passed peacefully into eternal rest on September 5, 2026, after a courageous journey with Alzheimer's disease. Born on August 19, 1948, in Indianapolis, Indiana, Janet's life was a testament to love, resilience, and unwavering dedication to her family and friends.

Janet was the cherished daughter of Thomas and Wanda Shank, both of whom predeceased her, as well as her in-laws, Ivan and Lois Woodard. She was raised in a loving home with her siblings, Elizabeth Jones, Thomas (Marcy) Shank, Bruce (Angie) Shank, and Susan (David) Moriarty. Janet is survived by her husband, Bennet Woodard, whom she married on September 28, 1968. They were blessed with five children: Denise (Jared) Matio, Jennifer (Joel) Eddy, Michael (Sasha) Woodard, Matthew (fiancé Christina) Woodard, and Christine (Chase) Caldwell. Her legacy continues through her grandchildren, Andrea (Denver) Kirschling, Emily (Tanner) Jones, Aaron (Olivia) Matio, Allison (Kevin) Sales, Jacob Eddy, Alexander Eddy, Aidan Woodard, Oliver Woodard, Myah Woodard, Josh Woodard, Addax Caldwell, and Quinn Caldwell, as well as five beloved great-grandchildren.

Janet graduated from Arlington High School in 1966. She was a dedicated employee at several places, including the Rivera Swim Club, Indiana University Athletics Department, Bloomington South High School Show Choir, and most recently, Boars Head. However, her most treasured role was that of a devoted mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother.

Janet’s heart and home were always open, welcoming family and friends with warmth, kindness, and love. She was an incredibly talented cook and baker who took great joy in preparing meals and desserts from scratch. Everything she made was prepared with love and care, creating countless memories for her family.

A woman of many talents, Janet also had a deep passion for gardening and took immense pride in her vibrant flower beds. Her creativity extended to sewing, where she was a gifted seamstress who designed and created beautiful dresses and outfits, including special creations for children and grandchildren’s dolls. She loved to read, enjoyed her daily walks, and found joy in the simple beauty of everyday life.

Janet was a former member of Christ the King Catholic Church in Indianapolis, where she found deep spiritual fulfillment and community. Her faith was a guiding force throughout her life, reflected in the kindness and compassion she showed to everyone she met.

Janet leaves behind not just her immediate family but also her in-laws, Phil (Carol) Woodard and Myra Neuman, as well as several nieces, nephews, and dear friends who will forever cherish her memory. Her family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude to the wonderful and loving staff at the Owen Valley Rehabilitation and Healthcare Center for the care and comfort they provided to Janet.

Janet's life was a beautiful tapestry of love, creativity, and devotion. She leaves behind a family that is forever grateful for her presence in their lives and the many cherished memories they will hold close to their hearts.

A celebration of Janet's life will be held on September 14, 2026, at Legacy Funeral Home, located at 1604 W. Morris St., Indianapolis, Indiana 46221, with visitation from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 pm and Services starting at 12:30 p.m., with burial at Crown Hill Cemetery immediately following the service.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the Alzheimer's Foundation of America, in memory of Janet's enduring spirit and the love she shared with all who knew her.