Janet Lea Wisenbarger (Sears), 70, passed away peacefully on April 4, 2026, in her home at Eastern Star in Mount Vernon, following a brief and courageous battle with cancer. A woman whose life was defined by kindness, resilience, and a genuine love for others, Janet leaves behind a legacy of warmth that will be felt for generations.
Born November 3, 1955, in Mansfield, Ohio, Janet was the daughter of the late Molly Collins and John Sears. From a young age, she possessed a natural ability to connect with people, something that would shape both her career and her life.
As a teenager, Janet worked various serving jobs in the Bellville area, including at well-known local establishments such as Harkey’s and the V&M—long before it carried that name. She found joy in meeting new people and built lasting friendships with many of her regular customers. Her outgoing personality and strong work ethic led her to manage the Bellville American Legion and later Doc’s Restaurant at the crossroads of State Route 97 and I-71, where she welcomed travelers from near and far and even crossed paths with the occasional celebrity.
In later years, Janet brought her compassion and patience to her work in property management throughout the Delaware and Columbus areas with Ardent Communities. Though the role often presented challenges, she approached every situation with kindness and understanding, earning the respect and appreciation of those she served. She later transitioned into home health care, where her natural gift for caring for others truly shined. She found particular meaning in sharing time with her mother-in-law, time she truly treasured.
At home, Janet expressed her love through cooking and baking. She was known for preparing family favorites like lasagna and steak dinners, and no gathering was complete without her homemade pies and cookies, lovingly made for her children and grandchildren. She delighted in spending time with her family—especially shopping trips and quiet moments with her children and grandchildren, who will always remember her beautifully kept hands and nails, and the gentle, feather-like touch she used to comfort them.
Janet also enjoyed quieter pursuits, often found with a good book in hand—her tastes ranging from the suspenseful works of Stephen King to heartfelt romance novels. In her spare time, she found peace and creativity in crocheting, crafting pieces that reflected her care and attention to detail.
Janet’s life was one of service, love, and simple joys. She had a way of making people feel seen, heard, and cared for—whether through a warm meal, a kind word, or a gentle touch.
Survivors include her son, Matthew Wisenbarger (Hayley Wisenbarger); daughter Tessa Wisenbarger; and their father Tony Wisenbarger; grandchildren William White (Madison Shuman), Lexi Ervin (Dane Ervin), Logan Smith, Laine Smith (Kendra Smith); great granddaughters, Magnolia Ervin & Harper Smith; sisters, Robin Coffing (Barth Coffing), Cathy Nash, Johnnie Kirkpatrick (Tom Kirkpatrick), Georgia Fliger (Chris Fliger) Sandy Sears; brother John Sears (Susie Sears), lots of nieces, nephews and extended family members.
Janet was preceded in death by her parents, a sister Jennifer Sears, and daughter, Elizabeth Wisenbarger.
A private graveside service will be held at Zion Four Corners Cemetery near Butler, where Janet will be laid to rest.
Though her time here feels far too short, the love she gave so freely will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew her.
The Bellville Snyder Funeral Home is honored to serve the Wisenbarger family and encourage messages of support by visiting snyderfuneralhomes.com
Funeral Home: Bellville Snyder Funeral Home
Website: www.snyderfuneralhomes.com