Janet Kathryn Isner

Janet Kathryn Isner, 91, of Grafton, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, September 24, 2025, at Ruby Memorial Hospital in Morgantown, surrounded by the love of her family. She was born on April 27, 1934, in Morgantown, the cherished daughter of the late Charles Kepler and Marie Shillingburg Brown.

Janet lived a life marked by devotion to her family, her students, and her community. A proud graduate of Morgantown High School, she went on to earn her Bachelor’s degree from Fairmont State College. With a heart for teaching, she dedicated 35 years to shaping young minds as an educator with the Taylor County Board of Education, teaching in both the Taylor and Monongalia County school systems. Her students remember her not only for her lessons but for the patience, compassion, and encouragement she poured into every classroom.

Janet’s commitment to education extended beyond the classroom as a devoted member of the WVEA and NEA. She was also an active part of her community, always ready to lend a hand or listen to someone in need. Her selflessness and gentle spirit left an imprint on all who knew her.

In her quiet moments, Janet found joy in the simple pleasures of life. She loved getting lost in a good book, creating beautiful quilts with meticulous care for family and friends, and cheering passionately for her beloved WVU football team. Shopping trips often became opportunities for laughter and new memories. Above all, she treasured time spent with her family—whether gathered for special occasions or in the everyday moments that turned into cherished memories.

Janet’s legacy of love lives on through her five children: Joseph Thomas Hodges III (Patti), Jeffrey Reed Hodges (Michelle), Jennifer Flesher (Larry), Jill Sturm (Tom), and Shella Gilbert (Lewis). She was a proud grandmother of seventeen grandchildren and twenty-two great-grandchildren, each one a source of joy and pride. She also embraced five stepchildren: Kim Dickey, Patti Paige, Cindy Dean, Judi Parks, and Kevin Isner. Janet was blessed with the companionship of four special friends she fondly called her “sisters”—Becky, Sheryl, Donna, and Barbara—along with several nieces and nephews who adored her.

In addition to her parents, Janet is now reunited in Heaven with her three sisters, Virginia Petrie, Jean Marie Nigh, and (twin Sister) Joann Atkinson, two brothers, Charles Kepler Brown Jr. and Benjamin Hunter Brown; and step-son, Kenny Isner.

Janet will be remembered for her warm smile, generous heart, and the countless lives she touched through her teaching, her friendships, and above all, her love for her family.

Family and friends will be received at Bartlett Funeral Home, 202 McGraw Ave., Grafton, on Monday, September 29, 2025 from 4:00PM until 8:00PM and on Tuesday, September 30, 2025 from 10:00AM until 11:00AM the hour of the funeral with Pastor Michael Willis officiating. Interment will be held at Woodsdale Memorial Park. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.bartlettfunralhomewv.com Bartlett Funeral Home is honored to serve the Isner family.

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