• Janet Elaine Caward, Hartsville, NY

Janet Elaine Caward, 76, a lifelong resident of Purdy Creek Road, Hartsville, NY passed away peacefully Thursday (Jan. 22, 2026) at the Vincent House in Wayland. Born in Troy, Pennsylvania, April 6, 1949, She was the daughter of Leonard and Reva (Dann) Root. She was a graduate of Arkport Central School and had resided most of her life in this area.

A devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, one of Janet's greatest joys was visiting over a hot cup of coffee. Janet is survived by her husband Dean with whom she shared a beautiful 57-year marriage, a partnership rooted in deep devotion, laughter, and unwavering support. Also surviving are Janet's children, daughter, Vicki (John) Washburn of Jonesville, VA, son, Rodney (Amy) Caward of Hornell, NY, her sisters, Della "Sue" Beyea and Carol Howell both of Canisteo, NY and her brothers, Donald (Marsha) Root and Glenn Root, both of Brady, TX. Janet is also survived by 3 treasured grandchildren, Lyndsay and Chauncey Caward and Shirley Washburn and 1 beloved great granddaughter, Charlotte Howland.

Janet was predeceased by her parents, Leonard and Reva Root, who she loved dearly. She spent endless evenings at their home playing cards, dominoes and Sequence, making memories and telling stories.

Janet had a special love for all animals, especially her dogs and cats. In her younger years she was an avid horse lover and could be found riding the hills of Hartsville on a sunny afternoon. She enjoyed spending time feeding her school of fish in her fishpond and watching the birds from her living room window. Janet found peace and happiness tending to her flowers and houseplants. She loved to tell stories about where each plant came from and would often be found bringing home a slip of a new plant to start it anew in her collection. Janet loved traveling and treasured camping trips to the Cowanesque Dam and Buffalo's Lazy Lakes Resort. Whether playing cards with family, cheering on the Buffalo Bills, or faithfully attending her children's and grandchildren's events, Janet was always present-proud and supportive.

Creative and generous, Janet spent hours knitting and crocheting sweaters, blankets, and beautiful Christmas stockings, each one a reminder of her talent and her heart. She loved to share her creations with others and thought nothing of giving away a scarf or crocheted "what not" bag if someone could use it. In addition to her hobbies, Janet worked her entire life to provide the best for her family. She started her career early on at the NYS DOT in map making, where she worked briefly before getting married. She then worked as the secretary of the Canisteo Methodist Church while also working in the kitchen at the Canisteo Central School District. Janet took pride in her work and through her 25 year employment at Canisteo worked her way up to finish her career as the Cafeteria Manager of both kitchens in the CCS District.

Janet's stories, love and companionship will be missed by many. She loved to strike up a conversation with a friend or stranger alike. In that spirit, a Celebration of Life will be held in the Spring, at which time family and friends will be asked to join together to reminisce and celebrate her life well lived. At this time, at Janet's and the family's request, there will be no calling hours or services. Memorial contributions can be made to Vincent House Comfort

Care Home 310 2nd Ave, P.O. Box 566 Wayland, NY 14572 or to your local animal shelter in her honor.

The family is being assisted by Brown & Powers Funeral Home of Canisteo.

To send a remembrance please visit www.brownandpowersfuneralhomes.com or on Facebook @ Brown Powers FH.