Janet V. Derr

Janet V. Derr, 84 of Pottsville, died Wednesday afternoon surrounded by her family at Lehigh Valley Hospital-Cedar Crest, Allentown.

She was born July 11, 1942, in Schuylkill Haven, a daughter of the late David and Lillian Stine Achey

She was a 1961 graduate of Blue Mountain Area High School where she was Head Majorette, which she loved all through her life.

Janet was employed by Van Huesen, Frank Gownley Real Estate where she worked as a Relator. Most recently she was the bookkeeper for the family business, Derr Excavating and Construction.

Janet was a member of Trinity United Church of Christ, Pottsville; Auburn Boat Club and Schuylkill Valley Corvette Club.

She enjoyed simple pleasures and meaningful moments that shaped her life. She enjoyed helping her husband, Bob, with the family business, a reflection of her steady support and devotion to those closest to her. She also had a love for flowers and found joy in life’s beauty around her. Among her happy times were riding shotgun on one of the Corvette Club outings and spending time out on the boat, experiences that brought companionship, adventure, and special memories.

Janet will be remembered for the quiet but meaningful ways she shared in the life of her family and the simple joys that brought her happiness. Her presence was a valued part of the everyday moments that become lasting memories.

Surviving are her children, Curtis Derr, Pottsville; a daughter, Brenda Gardner and her husband James, Flourtown; 2 grandchildren, Lily and Trent Gardner; her twin sister, Joan Bensinger, Thousand Oaks, CA, and a sister, Dawn Merris and her husband Tim, Fruita, CO; nieces and nephews.

Funeral Services will be held 11AM Wednesday, September 2nd at the James E. Humphrey Funeral Home, Pottsville, with Rev. Michael Smith officiating. Family and friends are invited to a visitation from 9am until the time of services. Interment will follow in Calvary Cemetery, Pottsville. The family would prefer remembrances in the form of contributions in memory of Janet be made to Trinity United Church of Christ 316 W. Market St. Pottsville, PA 17901 or to St. Jude's Children Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN 38105.