Janet Lynn Sanders

ALBANY - Janet Lynn Sanders, 76, passed away peacefully on October 18, 2024, surrounded by her beloved partner, Jeannette Reheuser, and dear friends.

Born in Louisville, Kentucky, Janet was the only daughter of the late Lloyd and Willie Mae (Guinee) Sanders.  Janet’s family moved frequently throughout her childhood in order to accommodate her father’s career.

Janet was a lifelong learner with a keen intellect, she earned a B.A. in English Literature from Trinity University in Washington, D.C. She continued her studies in English Literature, receiving a M.A. from the University of Colorado Boulder. Janet spent most of her professional life as a marketing copywriter.

She moved to Southern California in 1982. While there, Janet formed cherished friendships that continued throughout her life. She subsequently moved to Albany, New York, eventually meeting her partner and soulmate, Jeannette.

Janet was a woman of far-reaching interests and talents. She enjoyed reading, viewing and creating artwork, designing Ikebana flower arrangements, and collecting Asian art. She also was committed to advocacy for persons with disabilities, serving as Secretary on the Board of Directors of the Independent Living Center of the Hudson Valley.

One of things that Janet most loved to do was travel. Among the foreign countries she visited were Cambodia, Thailand, Vietnam, South Korea, Hong Kong, Israel, Austria, the Czech Republic, and the United Kingdom.  She also enjoyed domestic travel, touring national parks and other places of natural beauty, as well as taking the opportunity to visit her many friends and relatives scattered throughout the U. S.  Unfortunately, in recent years, Janet’s travel was curtailed by the COVID pandemic and her chronic lung disease. Despite these challenges, she continued to stay connected to and supportive of her extensive network of friends and dear relatives.

Janet was a student and practitioner of Buddhism for her entire adult life. She practiced in the Zen Buddhist and Tibetan traditions. Janet will be remembered as a devoted and loving partner and a caring and generous friend. Survivors include her partner Jeannette Reheuser, numerous cousins, and many friends. She will be especially missed by her beloved feline companion, Sammy.

Those who wish to make a donation in Janet’s name might consider contributing to organizations supported by Janet, such as the Independent Living Center of the Hudson Valley (15-17 Third Street, Troy, NY 12180), Shambala Meditation Center of Albany (747 Madison Avenue, Albany, NY 12208), Crabapple Farm NY Inc/Crabapple Cats and Kittens (267 Unionville Feura Bush Rd, Feura Bush NY 12067) or any other organization of your choosing.

Calling hours will be held on Wednesday, October 30, 2024 from 4 to 6 PM at the Daniel Keenan Funeral Home located at 490 Delaware Avenue, Albany, NY 12209.  A memorial service will take place beginning at 5:15 PM. The memorial service may be attended remotely and condolences can be posted at danielkeenanfuneralhome.com.