Janet was born in Hill City, Kansas, to O. Carroll and Nell (Givens) Noel. She grew up in WaKeeney, Topeka, and Wichita, Kansas developing early the curiosity, compassion, and drive that would shape her life.
A proud graduate of Wichita East High School (Class of 1949), she went on to attend Wichita University (now Wichita State University), where she excelled as a member of the speech and debate team, Sorosis, and Mortar Board. As president of the student body, she was honored with the opportunity to meet one of her heroes, First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt.
After earning her bachelor’s degree in elementary education from Wichita University, Janet completed a master’s degree at Ohio University. She then accepted a position as Assistant Dean of Women at the University of Kansas — a role that also brought her closer to her then-boyfriend and future husband, Thomas P. Coleman. The two married in 1962 in Wichita and later settled in Lincoln, Nebraska, where Janet continued her studies at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln and where Thomas was a professor of art.
In 1973, Janet began a distinguished 27-year career with Lincoln Public Schools. As a school psychologist and teacher working with students facing behavioral challenges at Lincoln East Junior-Senior High School, she brought dedication and support to all her students.
Janet’s commitment to her community extended beyond the classroom. She served on the Board of Lincoln General Hospital for nine years, including two as Chair. Her service also included the Lincoln Community Health Endowment, Women’s HealthLinc, The People’s Health Center (now Bluestem Health), the Nebraska State Board of Health, and numerous state and local committees committed to expanding access to quality, affordable health and mental health care. Her leadership and advocacy left a meaningful and lasting impact on the community she loved.
Janet is survived by her children: John (Sarah Prown) of Guilford, Connecticut; Cynthia of Houston; and Kathryn (Ken Berlack) of Ellicott City, Maryland; her cherished grandchildren, Willow and Rosalie Coleman and Tommy and Charlie Berlack; her sister-in-law, Jeanne Coleman; niece and nephew, Maura and Daniel Coleman; and many beloved friends.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Thomas; her brother, Dallas; sister-in-law, Carol Noel; niece, Debra Noel Kelly; brother-in-law, Dennis Coleman; and many treasured friends in Lincoln and Wichita.
In honor of Janet’s lifelong commitment to education, children, and community health, memorial donations may be made to the Lincoln Children’s Zoo, the Lincoln Public Schools Foundation, or the Foundation Fighting Blindness.
Per Janet’s wish, there will be no service.