Janis North Spear was born July 12, 1937, in Corinth, Mississippi, and was called home by her Savior Jesus Christ on December 31, 2024. She was the daughter of Katherine and Howard North. Janis graduated from Corinth High School; she was later employed there as a secretary in the high school office and in various other roles. Harrison Spear was the love of her life, and they were married 68 years until Harrison’s death in 2023. Janis and Harrison had a marriage that was an example to many—especially to their children. Their deep love and devotion to each other was so strong that it is almost impossible to talk about Janis without also talking about Harrison.
Janis’ life was centered around her faith, her family, and her friends. She was an active member of First Presbyterian Church, where she served as church secretary, church pianist, children’s Sunday school volunteer, and a women’s Bible study participant. She was a life member of the Junior Auxiliary of Corinth.
Janis made many sacrifices for her family and always put their needs above her own. She loved her three daughters, but many times she jokingly told each of her sons-in-law that he was “her favorite.” Nothing can surpass the love that she had for her children and grandchildren. They were her pride and joy, and “Gran” was her favorite name.
Janis was preceded in death by her parents, son Len Spear, her brother Edward North, sister-in-law Mary Elizabeth Barton, great-grandson David Elfert, and her beloved husband Harrison.
She is survived by her daughters, Cindy Erickson (Jimmy), Vivian Farris (Hank), and Judy Kruger (Barry); granddaughters, Kelly Elfert (Roger), Courtney Walker (Chris), Jamie Hargett (Matt), Katie Mault (Mason), and Janis Kruger; grandsons, Brett Farris (Laura) and Wesley Kruger (Elise); great-grandchildren, Katherine Elfert, Larkin Elfert, Harrison Elfert, James Walker, Margaret Walker, Ellen Walker, Eric Hargett, Daniel Hargett, Maggie Mault, and Riley Farris; sister-in-law Mildred Norman; and several nieces and nephews.
The family would like to thank Janis’ faithful caregivers and the staff of Magnolia Home Hospice.
Visitation is scheduled for 12:00 to 2:00 on Saturday January 11, 2025, in the First Presbyterian Church fellowship hall. Funeral services will follow in the church sanctuary at 2pm.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to:
First Presbyterian Church Deacon’s Fund
1909 Shiloh Road
Corinth Mississippi 38834;
Roca Blanca Missions
P.O. Box 1101
Hutchinson Kansas 67502 (Memo: David and Laura Nelson);
Magnolia Hospice
1001 South Harper Road
Corinth, Mississippi 38834
