E. Janette Croom Lovely, 78, passed away peacefully at home on February 1, 2025, surrounded by the love of her family. Born on October 20, 1946, in Humboldt, TN., Janette lived a life defined by service, love, and an unwavering spirit.
Janette was the daughter of Prof. Marion Hamlet Croom, a dedicated school principal, and Erlene Turner Croom, a passionate educator. She attended Stigall High School and graduated valedictorian. Janette earned her degree from Homer G. Phillips School of Nursing, and carried on her legacy of care and commitment dedicating over 40 years of her life as a Registered Nurse in Obstetrics & Gynecology.
Janette’s journey led her to St. Louis MO., where she married Lowell B. Denny II and welcomed her beloved children, Lowell Buckner Denny III and Dominique (Doris) Adele Denny. Later, in 1974, she found her true love, Ben Roy Lovely, in Chicago, IL., and remarried. They moved with her two children to Santa Barbara, CA., where they built a beautiful life together and welcomed their youngest daughter, Nicholle Erlene Lovely.
Our mother, Janette, was a woman of grace, strength, and elegance. She had an undeniable love for helping others, which shone through not only in her career, but in every aspect of her life. She was a woman of deep conviction, always encouraging others with wisdom and grace. Janette always spoke her truth and taught her children to do the same. She had a passion for cooking, sewing, traveling, and many diverse interests, including playing the piano, horseback riding, and fashion. But above all she cherished her family, especially her granddaughters, who brought her immense joy.
Janette is survived by her son, Lowell III (58) of Kailua Kona, HI.; daughter, Dominique (56) and granddaughters, Kameron (23) and Kennedy (23) O’Neal, all of Fontana, CA.; youngest daughter, Nicholle (49) and granddaughter Ndiyah Rain Lovely-Stovall, (4), both of Lancaster, CA.; her only sister, Doris Marion Croom Kendrick of Humboldt, TN.; niece, Sheileea Kendrick-Booher of Knoxville, TN.; and nephew, Darryl Kendrick, of Three Way, TN., and many other close cousins, family, and friends who loved her deeply. Janette is preceded in death by her beloved parents and her dear soulmate, Ben Roy.
A memorial service will be held at Rose Hill Cemetery in Humboldt, TN., with the date to be determined.
Janette was inspiring and strong, yet humble and kind. She lived with faith, walked in love, and now rests in eternal peace of God’s embrace. Her legacy of love, strength, and generosity will live on and be forever cherished in the hearts of all who knew her. A Phenomenal Woman, she’s free.
