Janet Kay Clarkson, 77, passed away at 4:52 p.m., Saturday, June 7, 2025, at her home in Grafton.
She was born on April 10, 1948, in Jerseyville, Illinois, the daughter of the late Lawrence A. and Christina Charlotte (Springman) Schroeder. A proud graduate of the Jersey Community High School Class of 1967, Janet carried with her a deep love for her roots and the values she learned growing up in a close-knit community.
On November 10, 1973, she married David Clarkson at St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church in Jerseyville. Their love story spanned more than five decades, and together they built a beautiful life filled with faith, family, and laughter. Their marriage was blessed with three children, and Janet dedicated her life to being a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother.
A true homemaker in every sense of the word, Janet found joy in the everyday moments—whether preparing meals for her family, offering a warm embrace, or lending a listening ear. Her greatest pride was in her family, and she lived each day with a heart full of love and compassion.
Surviving are her husband, David Clarkson of Grafton; two sons and a daughter-in-law, Otis James "Jim" Clarkson of Elsah and Lawrence "Larry" and Tracy Clarkson of Jerseyville; and her cherished grandchildren, Jillian Clarkson, Alexia Clarkson, Jayden Smith, Brian McDonald, Michael McDonald, Shawn McDonald, Ava Clarkson, Natalie Clarkson, Alexandra Bizallion, Kennadi Bizallion, Kierstyn Bizallion, and Rayven Clarkson.
She is also survived by her brother, Phillip Schroeder of Jerseyville; a brother-in-law, Grey Wyman of Piasa; a sister-in-law, Helen Antrobus of Grafton; and many nieces and nephews, including a special niece, Lisa McDonald, who held a particularly dear place in Janet’s heart.
Janet was preceded in death by her parents; her beloved daughter, Mary Christina Smith on January 31, 2021; a sister, Sandra Wyman; and her father-in-law and mother-in-law, Otis James Lee and Mary Moleta Clarkson.
Visitation will be held from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m., Thursday, June 12, 2025, at Crawford Funeral Home in Jerseyville. Funeral services will be conducted at 11:00 a.m., Friday, June 13, 2025, at the funeral home with Father Martin Smith officiating. She will be laid to rest at Scenic Hill Cemetery in Grafton.
In honor of Janet’s generous spirit and love for her community, memorials may be given to the Grafton American Legion Women’s Auxiliary.
Memories and condolences may be shared with the family at www.crawfordfunerals.com.
