MT. VERNON – Janis Kay Mitchell, 70, of Mt. Vernon, Illinois, passed away on Friday, Feb. 27, 2026, at SSM Health in Mt. Vernon.

Janis was born on February 7, 1956, in McLeansboro, Illinois, to Jack Thomas and Mary Jo (Lenard) Thomas. She dedicated her career to caring for others as a registered nurse. Janis had a deep love for gardening and cherished every moment spent with her children, grandchildren, and friends. She was a devoted Methodist by faith.

She is survived by her sons, Shane Emrich and wife Ambur of Mt. Vernon, Illinois, and Dylan Mitchell and wife Alyssa of McLeansboro, Illinois; her sister, Debra Thomas of Dale, Illinois; and her brother, Steven Thomas of McLeansboro, Illinois. She is also lovingly remembered by her grandchildren: Regan McDaniel, Rylee McDaniel, Lennon Emrich, Ezekiel Sparks, and Juniper Mitchell.

Janis was preceded in death by her parents; her sister, Brenda Elliott; and her brothers, Alan Thomas and Keith Thomas.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, March 6, 2026, from 5 to 7 p.m., at Harre Funeral Home in McLeansboro, with a service to follow conducted by Pastor Thad Galloway. A private spreading of ashes will be held by the family at a later date.

The Harre Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.