Obituaries

Shirley Ann (nee Oates) Janson, 90, of California, KY, passed away on June 5, 2026, at home surrounded by her children. She was born on August 27, 1935, in Cincinnati, OH to the late Thomas and Cora Mae (nee Jones) Oates.

She grew up in Dayton, KY and raised her family in Bellevue, KY. Above all else, Shirley was a devoted and loving wife and mother whose greatest joy was her family. She created a home filled with warmth, kindness, and unconditional love, always making everyone feel welcome. The love she shared with her husband, children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and all who knew her will remain her lasting legacy.

She was also an Office Manager and personal secretary for David Herriman (a Covington property developer), worked for the Cincinnati Reds and the Diocese Family Planning Clinic. She was a member of Saint Anthony Church/Divine Mercy Parish in Bellevue.

She was preceded in death by her husband of 69 years (Robert “Bob” Richard Janson), parents (Thomas & Cora Mae Oates), and siblings (Thomas "Tim" Oates, Jr., and Sharon Boberg).

Shirley is survived by her children, Dennis (Kori) Janson Chip (Julie) Janson, Gary Janson, Chris (Karen) Janson, Tracey (Mark) Hammond, Tony (Veronica) Janson; sister, Susan Betigheimer and many nieces and nephews. She has 16 grandchildren and 24 great-grandchildren, with number 25 (a boy) on the way, due this October.

Visitation will be held on Friday, June 12, from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm at Divine Mercy Parish. Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 12:00 pm with Fr. Ryan Stenger officiating. Burial will take place at the New St. Joseph Cemetery in Cincinnati, OH. A Celebration of Life will follow at the Bellevue Vets, 24 Fairfield Ave. Bellevue, KY.

Memorials are suggested to the St. Elizabeth Hospice, 483 South Loop Rd. Edgewood, KY 41017. Online condolences can be given at dmefuneral.com.