Janis Gavelys, 74, of East Peoria, passed away peacefully Friday, March 15, 2024 at her home with her family by her side.

She was born January 10, 1950 in Peoria to Anton and Mary (Skuratko) Kobylanski.  She married Tony Gavelys in Peoria on August 31, 1968.  He survives.

Also surviving are three children, Misi (Ryan) Inskeep of Prophetstown, Chad (Leslie) Gavelys of Yates City, Andy Gavelys of Yates City; five grandchildren, Lindsey (Aaron Heaton) Inskeep, Zach (Breanna) Inskeep, Carissa, Carmen, and Carter Gavelys; three great-grandchildren, Hudson, Nolan, and Dax Inskeep; sister, Genie (Loyd) Hurn; brother, Frank (Nancy Koch) Kobylanski; and several nieces and nephews.  She was preceded in death by her parents; and infant brother.

Janis worked for AT&T for 30 years. She started her career as a directory assistance operator and retired as a customer account specialist. Janis loved being with her family and adored her grandchildren and great grandchildren. She and Tony enjoyed spending time with their grandchildren taking them on trips and attending their school events. She had a way of making Christmas magical for the family. She was known for her numerous Christmas trees and her Department 56 Christmas villages display.

Janis enjoyed spending time outdoors, being in the sunshine and bicycling with her friends. She valued the friendships in her life and enjoyed the time she spent reconnecting with her Manual High School classmates. Janis enjoyed traveling. She and Tony saw much of the United States from Alaska to Hawaii plus several trips and cruises to the Caribbean and two trips to Europe. She was a member of St. Monica's Catholic Church in East Peoria.

Janis will be forever remembered and forever loved. She will leave a legacy of love and warmth by all who knew her.

Her funeral service will be held at Noon Wednesday, March 20, 2024 at Deiters Funeral Home and Crematory in Washington.  Visitation will be from 10am to Noon Wednesday at the funeral home. Fellowship to follow at St. Monica's Catholic Church in East Peoria.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Pancreatic Cancer Research at Pancan.org.