Janet Marie Summers

In the early hours of Thursday, January 26th, 2023, Janet Marie Summers, a beloved mother of three and grandmother of seven, passed away at age 72. A staunch supporter of the arts and avid member of the local theaters, Janet earned a bachelor's degree in Theater Arts and formed myriad lifelong connections throughout her many performances and productions, on stage as well as behind the scenes, garnering countless accolades.

Born of Emmerson and Ellen Summers, the eldest of four daughters, she grew up in Florida with her sisters Catherine, Barbara, and Patricia, graduating in 1968 and joining the Army. Stationed at Fort Ord in California where she met her husband and father of their children Glen Thomas Eskew. The couple then lived together in Homestead and Key West Florida until moving to Idaho where they ultimately separated.

Throughout her lifetime, Janet possessed a nearly infinite ability to take joy in the world around her, not just in the sights and sounds but in its people as well. A lifelong ally, valuing equality and raising her children to meet everyone with kindness. Ever quick to celebrate someone's culture or accomplishments Janet was swift and lavish in the praise which she dispensed with a free hand to any that engaged her.

She had an incredible laugh that would be delivered in peals as she rocked back and forth and shall long echo in the memories of any who had the fortune to know her.

Janet, a lifelong learner and teacher, enjoyed a career at the Idaho Transportation Department, Boise State University and the Idaho State Board of Nursing until her retirement in 2018. Janet's passion for helping others earned her the Volunteer of Year award in 2014 from Easterseals-Goodwill. Janet always treated everyone she encountered with integrity and respect.

Janet was best known for her welcoming nature, generous spirit, and wonderment. She is survived by her sisters Catherine, Barbara, and Patricia, her daughter Dawn and husband James, sons Adrian and wife Destry, and Stefan and wife Anne, and grandchildren Samantha, Autumn, Hayden, Ian, Jessie, Jakob, and Wyatt.

Her final curtain call will be a memorial service held at Relyea Funeral Chapel on Monday, February 6th. Viewing at 1pm, service at 2pm.

Flowers may be sent to Cremation Society of Idaho - Please have the florist deliver by 9:00am on Monday, February 6th.