Janet R. Smith

Janet R. Smith, 88, of Evansville, Ind., passed away peacefully on January 5, 2026, surrounded by love.

Janet was born on August 24, 1937, to the late Loyd and Lola Topper. She was a graduate of Reitz High School and spent her life devoted to her family, faith, and community.

She was a wonderful mother and grandmother, generously helping care for her grandchildren and great-grandchildren through the years. She was always there to make and bring food and desserts for family gatherings and church functions, sharing her love through hospitality and care.

Janet was a faithful member of Saint James West Church, where her son-in-law, Gene Backes, serves as pastor. She was proud to be a “Church Chick” and a Red Hatter, enjoying fellowship, friendship, and community.

She is survived by her husband of 65 years, Robert A. Smith; her daughter, Susan Backes (Gene Backes); and her son, Scott Smith (Rhonda Smith). She is also survived by four grandchildren: Jennifer O’Neil (David O’Neil), Andrew Backes (Andrea Backes), Chad Smith (Kalyn Smith), and Chelsea Stevens (Jacob Stevens); and nine great-grandchildren: Gabriel, Margaret, and Joshua O’Neil; Adalyn and Ava Backes; Caiden and Gemma Smith; and Elijah and Olivia Stevens.

She is further survived by her sister, Sue Cloum.

Janet was preceded in death by her parents and her siblings Leland Topper, Wayne Topper, Lois Huffman, Gail Oeth, Jo Ann Reeves, and Yvonne Winstead.

Funeral services for Janet was held at 11 a.m. on Thursday, January 8, 2026 at Pierre Funeral Home, the Rev. Gene Backes officiating. Burial followed in Park Lawn Cemetery.

Friends visited with the family from 9 a.m. until service time on Thursday at Pierre Funeral Home, 2601 West Franklin. Street.

Condolences may be made online at www.pierrefuneralhome.com.