Janet Joyce Gifford, 89, of Banner County, Nebraska, entered Heaven on Sunday, August 11, 2024, with her beloved granddaughter at her bedside. A funeral service will be held at 1 p.m., Friday, August 16, 2024, at Calvary Memorial Church in Gering, Nebraska with Pastor Gary Hashley officiating. Interment will follow at Sunset Memorial Park Cemetery in Scottsbluff. No viewing will be held. Memorials may be made to Options Pregnancy Center. The funeral service will be livestreamed and recorded to Janet’s obituary page viewable at www.reverencefuneralparlor.com.
Janet was born January 20, 1935, in Scottsbluff to George and M. Grace (Tipton) Bell. She graduated from Scottsbluff High School before pursuing a teaching certificate at Scottsbluff Junior College.
Janet met the love of her life, Warren Gifford, when his mother introduced him to her at a Harrisburg community meeting. They wed on June 2, 1957, and made their home on the Gifford family farm. They welcomed four sons: Tim, Tracy, Rich, and Randy. No matter what mischief her boys got themselves into, Janet was their fervent supporter and always stuck up for them.
Janet and Warren enjoyed square dancing together all around the valley during several years of their marriage. Janet was a talented painter, specializing in porcelain art. She operated her own studio and taught China painting for many years. She later branched into China doll-making. She founded the local chapter of the World Organization of Porcelain Painters. Janet was also a proud member of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR).
“Grandma” was a title Janet wore with joy. She faithfully attended each of her grandchildren’s events and activities. Forever a teacher at heart, Janet made many memories with them while instructing them through various art and craft projects over the years.
Survivors include her sons, Tim (Tanya) Gifford, Tracy (Meri) Gifford, Rich (Susan) Gifford, and Randy (Connie) Gifford; along with many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Janet was preceded in death by her parents, George and Grace Bell; in-laws, Harold and Viola Gifford; infant son, Tony Andrew; brother, Larry Bell; sister, Carol Dillman; and husband of 65 years, Warren Gifford.