Janet Louise Aldridge, 87, went peacefully to her heavenly home on Feb. 11, 2024, after her struggle with Alzheimer’s. She is survived by daughters Linda (James) Watkins, Laura (Mike) Haynes, daughter-in-law Holly Aldridge; grandchildren Resha (Jeremy) Still, Rachel Watkins, Jennifer (Kyle) Sauder, Jacob (Devon Adair) Haynes, Mary Haynes, Spencer Aldridge, Leah Aldridge, Macie Aldridge; great-grandchildren Wesley and Zaden Still, and Amelia and Kenzy Sauder; sisters Ramsey (Joe) Beckstead and Jean (Joe) Wilson; brother Luke Allen; and numerous nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Luther and Bessie Allen, mother LaVeda Allen, husband Paul Aldridge, son David Aldridge and granddaughter Megan Watkins.
Janet was born Nov. 10, 1936, in Phoenix, Ariz., where she spent most of her growing-up years. She was a graduate of Sunny Slope High School and Grand Canyon University.
While at Tempe Beach Pool, she met the love of her life, Paul Aldridge. She often told us that the first time she saw him, she knew she would marry him. They married June 30, 1960, sharing nearly 61 years. While in Phoenix, they started their family, welcoming Linda and Laura.
Janet was a career school teacher, teaching not only in Phoenix for many years, but also alongside Paul in a one-room school house in Hillside, Ariz. It was in Hillside that they welcomed the birth of their son, David. Shortly after, in 1975, they made the move to Pagosa Springs, Colo., where they lived out the rest of their lives.
Janet continued teaching and retired from Pagosa Springs Elementary School in 1994. She was also a vital part of Ole Miner’s Steakhouse, which she and Paul owned for 26 years.
Janet is best remembered as being “one of the sweetest people you will ever meet.” Her love of Jesus and hope in her redemption was lived out day to day. She had a sense of humor that delighted all who knew her. She not only taught children, but invested in their lives with compassion and care, most often referring to them as her “kiddos.” Janet served her church family through children’s ministries and playing the organ and piano. She was devoted most to her family, loving us well. She will be greatly missed as a loving mother, grandmother and friend.
A celebration of Janet’s life will be Saturday, March 2, at 10 a.m., at Centerpoint Church, Pagosa Springs.
