Janet Butler Pasley, age 80, passed away on October 10, 2026, leaving behind a lifetime of memories, laughter, love, and stories that will continue to be told for generations.
Born on August 21, 1946, in Pittsburg, Texas, Janet grew up in Winnsboro, Texas, where she formed friendships that would last a lifetime. Even after all these years, she remained close to many of her childhood friends, a beautiful reminder that some friendships truly do stand the test of time.
Janet was truly one of a kind. With her quick wit, strong will, and a healthy dose of stubbornness, she was never one to leave you wondering where she stood. She spoke her mind freely, whether you asked for her opinion or not, and once she made up her mind, there wasn’t much chance of changing it! But that was Janet—independent, spirited, and completely herself. Her family and friends will forever remember her unmistakable personality, her humor, and the many conversations that often left them with a story to tell.
Above all, Janet loved her family. One of her special gifts was her remarkable knowledge of family history. She was the family’s unofficial historian, storyteller, and keeper of memories. If there was a question about a relative, a family connection, or something that happened years ago, Janet was often the one who knew the answer. She carried generations of family history with her and took pride in sharing those stories with the people she loved. Through her, the past remained connected to the present, and treasured memories were preserved for future generations.
Janet is survived by her children, Kevin Kear and his wife, Sandi; Sara Koch and her husband, Michael; and Kyle Pasley and his wife, Whitney; along with her stepdaughter, Nancy Gibson and her husband, Todd. She also leaves behind 12 beloved grandchildren and her cherished great-grandchildren, each an important part of the family legacy she treasured.
As family and friends gather to remember Janet, there will undoubtedly be stories told, memories shared, and more than a few smiles and laughs along the way. And that is exactly how a life like hers deserves to be remembered—not only with sadness for her passing, but with gratitude for the years, the relationships, and the moments that made her who she was.
Janet may no longer be here to answer the family’s questions about the past, offer her unmistakably honest opinion, or share one more story, but the memories she preserved and the love she leaves behind will remain woven into the lives of those who knew her.
She spent a lifetime keeping her family’s stories alive. Now, her story becomes one they will forever tell.
A Celebration of Life honoring Janet will be held at 1:00 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 24, 2026, at Bright-Holland Funeral Home with Rev. Mike Clark officiating. The family will receive friends at the funeral home one hour prior to the service. To leave a message or tribute for the family please visit www.brighthollandfuneralhome.com
