Janet Schiele

Schiele Janet Photo1

Janet L. Schiele, 66, died peacefully in her sleep on Monday, February 16, 2026 at her home. She was born February 11, 1960 in Zanesville, Ohio to Dean and Judy (Kendrick) Schiele. She was Dean and Judy’s fourth daughter, and she often joked and told people that she became the “middle child” when she was 20! She was a loving and dedicated daughter, sister, aunt, and friend. She was Catholic by faith and attended St. Nicholas Catholic Church in Zanesville and St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Parish in Pickerington.

Janet spent many years working in the medical billing and coding field, both in Zanesville and Columbus. She was charismatic, never met a stranger, and was always the life of the party. Janet’s quick wit and love for fun will be remembered by all who were blessed to know her. She had the most giving heart and loved her people fiercely. She treated friends like family and showered those around her with love and affection. If you were fortunate enough to be on the receiving end, it’s something you will carry with you forever. Although she faced many challenges with her health, Janet was a fighter and tackled each obstacle with strength and tenacity. Her courage was inspiring. She enjoyed spending time with her family and friends, especially the children. She often supported her nieces, nephews and friends by attending sporting events, dance recitals, and school functions. She was one of a kind, and a true light in this world.

Janet is survived by her six siblings, Kathy (Dan) Soller, Kris (Doug) Staker, Jill (Larry) Merry, Joanie (Tim) McConaha, Bethany Schiele, and Michael (Melanie) Schiele. She treasured her nieces and nephews. Surviving are Matt (Sara) Puckett, Nathan (Tiffany) Puckett, Megan Puckett, Ryan Staker, Christopher (Heather) Merry, Laura Merry, Jonathan (Kylie) Merry, Justin (Jordain) Merry, Josh (Katie) McConaha, Bryan (Kelsey) McConaha, Kaitlin McConaha, and Emily Schiele. Janet is also survived by several great nieces and nephews whom she adored. Many aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends also survive.

In addition to her parents, Janet was preceded in death by her paternal grandparents, Leo and Frances Schiele, her maternal grandparents, Howard and Jane Kendrick, a brother in law, Jim Puckett, and the absolute lights of her life, her dogs Zoeie and Bellah.

Janet”s family wishes to thank Ashley Phebus and Sandy Welling for being wonderful friends to Janet and for helping to care for her.

Friends may call from 1 PM until 4PM, Sunday, February 22, 2026 at the Hillis Combs Funeral Home, 935 Forest Ave., Zanesville. A Funeral Mass will be held Monday, February 23, 2026 at 10:30 AM at St. Nicholas Catholic Church, 925 East Main St., Zanesville, with Fr. Stephen Ondrey officiating.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Janet’s name to the Hillis Combs Funeral Home.

To sign the online guestbook or leave a personal note of condolence please visit www.hilliscombsfh.com.

Categories: Obituaries