Janet B. Smerglia

Janet Barbara Chambers Smerglia, age 91, of Stow, OH, passed away on Sunday, January 18, 2026, at her home, at Vitalia Senior Residences.

Janet was born May 18,1934 in Chicago, IL to the late Lawrence and Freda (Lusk) Chambers. She received her undergraduate and master’s degrees in early childhood education from Kent State University. She went on to marry her college sweetheart, Joe on June 18,1955. They enjoyed more than 62 years of wedded bliss until his passing in 2017.

For over 30 years she taught mainly kindergarten within the Field Local School district and poured her whole heart into nurturing young minds. She proudly mentored more than 50 student teachers throughout her career. Those who knew her felt the warmth of her encouragement and her belief in their potential. Her legacy lives on in the countless lives she touched.

She is survived by daughters, Lisa (Scott) Moyer of Stow, Cathy (Paul) Mowrer of Myrtle Beach, SC, and Carol (Doug) Downing of Johnstown, OH; son, Joel (Tracey Smith) Smerglia of Mogadore; treasured grandmother of Brian, Michelle (Carly), Kyle (Holly), Ian (Madison), Ross (Mackenzie), Cameron (Amelia), Amanda (Jeffrey), Alex (Karessa), and Brendan; great grandmother to nine great grandchildren; dear sister, Carolyn Kaufman-(Van) Carter; and cherished aunt to many nieces and nephews.

Calling hours will be held 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM & 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM Friday, January 30, 2026, at Bissler & Sons Funeral Home, 628 W. Main St. Kent, OH 44240. A Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, January 31, 2026, at 3:30 PM at United Methodist Church of Kent, 1435 East Main St. Kent, OH 44240 with a meal to follow.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the World Wildlife Fund or Wounded Warriors Project.

Services in care of Bissler & Sons Funeral Home and Crematory, 628 West Main Street, Kent, OH 44240.