Janet Sue Courtoise (Pinnell), 78, passed away peacefully at her home on Saturday, October 31, 2026, surrounded by the love and comfort of her family.
She was born on May 8, 1948, in Claremore, Oklahoma, the daughter of Russell Calvin and Rose Mary (Delbruegge) Pinnell.
On July 2, 1967, Janet married the love of her life, Willis F. "Shorty" Courtoise, Jr. Together, they built a life centered on love, family, and cherished memories. He preceded her in death on December 21, 2023.
Janet lived a life rooted in kindness, hard work, and unwavering devotion to those she loved. In her younger years, she worked at Olin Corporation and later enjoyed a brief but creative chapter as a licensed hairstylist, sharing her talents and warm personality with others.
Above all, Janet's greatest joy and most treasured role was being a mother. After welcoming her children, she devoted herself wholeheartedly to her family as a loving homemaker. She took great pride in creating a warm and welcoming home, where love was abundant and family always came first. Her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren were the center of her world, and the love, lessons, and memories she shared with them will remain a lasting part of her legacy.
Janet is survived by her three children, Tracy S. (Jenese) Sparks of Bethalto, Tina L. (Edward) Masiero of South Roxana, and Chad L. Courtoise of Bethalto; five grandchildren, Mindy, Chelsea, Chantel, Brandon, and Paige; four great-grandchildren, Aydric, Keegan, Quinton, and Gwendolyn; and one brother, James (Judy) Pinnell.
In addition to her beloved husband, Shorty, she was preceded in death by her parents.
Visitation will be held on Friday, November 6, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. until the time of funeral services at 11:00 a.m. at Elias, Kallal & Schaaf Funeral Home in Bethalto.
Burial will follow at Rose Lawn Memory Gardens in Bethalto.
Memorials may be made to the Alzheimer's Association or to the family.
Online condolences and a guestbook may be found at www.eliaskallalandschaaf.com.
