Janet Marie Ketter

Janet Ketter, a longtime resident of Westworth Village, Texas, passed away on October 24, 2026, at the age of 85. Born on July 1, 1941, in Chicago, Illinois, Janet lived a life marked by independence, determination, intellectual curiosity, and a deep compassion for animals and the natural world.

Janet's early years were not without hardship. She and her brother spent part of their childhood in an orphanage, an experience that helped shape the strong, self-reliant woman she would become. Following her graduation from high school, Janet chose a path of service to her country, enlisting in the United States Air Force in Minnesota in November 1961. She served as a Personnel Specialist until her discharge from active duty in 1965 at Carswell Air Force Base in Fort Worth, Texas.

Following her military service, Janet began a career with General Dynamics before joining the City of Fort Worth, where she worked until her retirement.

Those who knew Janet remember a remarkably intelligent woman, described by a close friend as "sharp as a tack." She was a voracious reader with an insatiable appetite for knowledge, accumulating a personal library so extensive that she left behind a room full of books to be shared with others. Her curiosity extended well beyond the written word, and she remained interested in learning and staying active throughout her life, practicing yoga until just a few years ago.

Janet had a special place in her heart for animals, particularly cats, many of which found safety and a loving home through her willingness to rescue them. Her appreciation for nature also led her to volunteer with Wildlife Rescue and the Fort Worth Nature Center, giving her time to causes that reflected her concern for living creatures and the environment.

A woman of strong convictions, Janet was engaged in her community and volunteered her time in support of the Democratic Party. She also attended the Church of Scientists in Fort Worth until its closing.

Fiercely independent, Janet was a woman who knew her own mind and was never afraid to follow her own path. Although she once considered marriage, she ultimately chose a life on her own terms. Her childhood challenges did not define her, but they were part of the remarkable strength and resilience that characterized her life.

Throughout her life, Janet formed meaningful friendships with people who shared her interests and values. Among them was a longtime friend with whom she shared many interests and volunteer activities. Through him, Janet met his cousin, Nancy Goehl, and developed a lasting bond with Nancy and her children. Together, they became Janet's chosen family. Although her longtime friend passed away several years ago, the relationships he helped bring into her life endured. Janet is survived by Nancy and her children.

Janet will be remembered for her quick mind, independent spirit, love of books, compassion for animals, and the quiet determination with which she lived. Hers was a life of service, curiosity, and conviction — lived in her own way, and on her own terms.