Burnett Laverne Janes

The Obituary Burnett Laverne Janes was born on October 15, 1942 to the late George E. Janes, Sr and the late Bettie Sears Janes in Buckingham County, Virginia. She was called to be with the Lord on August 1, 2014. Burnett was pre deceased by her sisters, Anna B. Janes and Catherine L. James and her brothers George E. James, Jr., and Earnest L. James. Burnett was educated in the Richmond Public Schools system, graduating from Maggie L. Walker High School in 1961. After the completion of her secretarial and business administration course at Smith Madden Business College in 1967, her vocational journey to C&P Telephone Company began in 1968. Burnett was employed as a telephone operator and experienced the evolution of C&P Telephone to Bell-Atlantic to finally Verizon. Her duties included everything from working in directory to being a telephone repair person. After her retirement in 1996, Burnett worked a series of public services positions and eventually became a longterm caregiver with The Help Agency Her faithfulness and commitment to service could also be found at Riverview Baptist Church as chairperson of the Hospitality Ministry and as chairperson of the Mary E. Golden Ushers Ministry. She served in every way possible in both of these ministries, most recently becoming a trustee of the church, until she began experiencing health challenges. Burnett was also known by many names: Shirley, Ma Shirley, Mama Janes, Miss Janes, even Miss Riverview. She was beautiful, vivacious, elegant, humorous, loving, nurturing, encouraging, compassionate, faithful, and committed to her family, friends, church, and community. Many of us have par taken of many delicious meals, and great conversations as she shared stories about life, love, and loss. As a single parent, Burnett was a great mother who supported her daughter through every accomplishment and every trial. She worked all of her life making sure that everyone around her was okay. She was the glue you found in every crack, bringing support to others by a phone call, a visit, or a hug. This was her ministry and is indeed her legacy. Left with cherished memories are her daughter, Lisa R. Janes; three sisters, Mary J. Baker, Inez J. Holmes (Raymond), and Betty J. Hicks, all of Richmond; one brother in-law; several nieces and nephews; a host of cousins, other relatives, former co-workers, church family and friends. She will be greatly missed by her loving and caring family.

Tributes

Burnett Laverne Janes

October 15, 1942 - August 1, 2014