Janet A. Messinger, 93, passed away peacefully on June 30, 2025 at the Mennonite Memorial Home in Bluffton, Ohio. Janet was born March 13, 1932 in Kalida, Ohio to Floyd and Fanny (Basinger) Stover, who preceded her in death. Her sisters, Betty Baxter, Annabelle “Annie” Ropp and her best friend and dog, Tippie also preceded her in death.

Janet was a 1950 graduate of Bluffton High School. She married the late James Messinger on June 27, 1953 and they had two children, a daughter, Diane Smith (late husband Donald Smith) who lives in Indian Lake, Ohio, a son, Doug Messinger and his wife Connie who live on the family farm in Bluffton, Ohio. She is also survived by a step-granddaughter Shannon (Jordan) Green; a step-grandson, Glenn (Katie) Miller; four great-grandsons, Christian, Israel, Uriah and Griffin and ten nieces and nephews. 

Janet was an active member of the Bluffton community. She worked at the Bluffton Dari Freeze and the Triplett Test Equipment & Tools Corporation, Bluffton. Janet was a longtime member of the Ebenezer Mennonite Church in Bluffton, Ohio where she served as a part-time secretary and a loving volunteer in the children’s church for 61 years. Leading her Sunday School class of two and three year olds to Jesus was one of her greatest joys. She treasured every gift and card from the children and her family and friends. Janet and her husband, Jim, were happy to house many missionaries on the family farm. She enjoyed quilting, sewing and reading the Bible.

Janet’s services will begin at 11:00 a.m., Thursday, July 3, 2025 at Ebenezer Mennonite Church, Bluffton. with pastors David Glick and Dick Potter officiating. Burial will follow in the Ebenezer Mennonite Cemetery. Visitation will be Wednesday from 3:00-7:00 p.m. at Chiles-Laman Funeral & Cremation Services, Bluffton and one hour prior to the service at the church.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Ebenezer Mennonite Church Youth Fund.

Condolences and/memories may be shared with the family at www.chiles-lamanfh.com.