Janet Thornby, age 83 of Garrison, ND formerly of Bottineau passed away on Thursday, September 12, 2024 at a Garrison nursing home.  Her funeral was held on Saturday, September 21, 2024 at 10:00 am at the Nero Funeral Home in Bottineau. Officiating at the service was Father Jared Kadlec. Burial was at the St. Mark's Catholic Cemetery in Bottineau.

Janet Thornby, born on February 19, 1941, left this world on September 12, 2024, leaving behind a legacy of love and family. Janet was a devoted mother to her children Corey, McKechnie (Karyn), Mike McKechnie (Kristi), Jackie Beck (Clarence), and Susan Vetsch

(Randy), and a caring stepmother to Craig Thornby (Judy), Keith Thornby, and the late Bruce Thornby (Myra). Her warmth and kindness extended to her grandchildren Ty, Kaylena, Eli, Brittany, Eden, Brady, Isabelle, Emily, Jiselle, Jack, Danny, Keith, and Jamie as well as her great-grandchildren Elle, Easton, Ezra, Beau, Amara, Oliver, Blake, Avaya, Adriel, Ayren, and Aspen.

Janet enjoyed traveling, hosting parties at their cabin on Lake Metigoshe, and spending quality time with friends and family. She worked as a phone operator, utilizing her communication skills and warmth to assist others.

Janet struggled with Multiple Sclerosis for the past 43 years, facing each day with courage and grace. Despite being bedridden for the past 21 years in her hospital bed, she found joy in hearing about the lives of her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren, looking at current pictures, and reminiscing about the past. Her smile and laughter echoed the love and happiness she felt in those moments.

Janet was preceded in death by her parents Vernon and Suzanne Gagnier, her brothers Glenn Gagneir, and Armand Gagnier, her husbands Marvin Thornby and Gerald McKechnie and her niece Tammy Espe. Their memories live on in the hearts of those who loved them.

As we bid farewell to Janet Thornby, we want to express our love and gratitude. Mom, we love you deeply and will cherish your memory always. Your love, strength, and kindness will continue to inspire us each day. Rest in peace, knowing that you are loved beyond measure.

The family would like to thank the entire staff at Garrison Memorial Hospital for their care and support they provided to Janet for the past 20+ years.