Murphys, CA…Ms. Janet S. McAnnally June 12, 1945 ~ February 16, 2026 (age 80). Janet Sherman MacAnnally was born in New Haven, Connecticut, to Roger Sherman and Janette Ricker Sherman. An only child, Janet cherished her close bond with her parents and was deeply affected by the loss of her beloved father at the age of thirteen.

Though her early roots were in New England, Janet spent her growing-up years in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. She attended Florida State University, where she became a devoted Seminoles fan — a loyalty she proudly maintained throughout her life.

Janet’s life was one of curiosity, adventure, and connection. She loved books — both reading and collecting them — and was a passionate gardener. A natural explorer, she developed a lifelong love of travel during her time as a flight attendant with Trans World Airlines. Her travels took her to many remarkable places, with East Africa, Paris, and the United Kingdom among her favorites. She later continued her career in the travel industry, sharing her knowledge and enthusiasm with others.

Her professional life also included work in banking and the payroll industry, with roles at Bank of America, ProBusiness, and ADP. In every role, she brought warmth, intelligence, and dedication.

Janet lived in many places throughout her life — including Alabama, Georgia, South Carolina, Chicago, and San Francisco — before retiring to Murphys, California. There, at Diggins Mobile Home Park, she found not only a home but a vibrant and welcoming community. She became deeply involved in local life, serving wine at community events and serving on the boards of Murphys Community Park and the Original Old Timers Museum. She was also an avid watercolor painter, best known for her beloved dog portraits.

Janet loved all animals — especially cats, dogs, elephants, and polar bears. Her most cherished feline companions were Hadley, Emma, and “the boy,” Buster, along with Hunter, who relocated to New Hampshire prior to her passing. She also shared with her father a lifelong passion for football, faithfully cheering for the San Francisco 49ers.

Above all, Janet treasured her circle of friends, whom she loved dearly — and who loved her just as deeply in return.

She is survived by her New England cousins: Ruth Ann Paden (second cousin), Susan Parody (third cousin), Carolyn Caouette, Mary Girard, and Bob Girard.

A Celebration of Life will be scheduled in the coming months. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Janet’s memory to Hospice of Amador & Calaveras or Canine Companions.

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