Janis Van Sandt was born in Norman, Oklahoma, in 1937. She had a love for college sports and the Houston Rockets. She is survived by her brother, Clifton Gravelle; two daughters, Susan (husband James Garman), Jill (husband Chris Welborn); four grandchildren, Leigh (husband Tong Utakrit), Kyle Garman, Brendan and Van Welborn; and one great granddaughter, Henleigh Utakrit.
Janis was a member of Christ Evangelical Presbyterian Church and volunteered in many areas, including communion setup and the funeral guild. Her love for life was in the nursery and the Young Adults Sunday School class.
Mimi, we love you to the moon and back. We remember your beautiful smile, your positive spirit, your love of your family, your friends and your church. We’ve shared big things like weddings, holidays and the birth of the first great grandchild and small things like comics, newspaper clippings with handwritten notes from you and activity boxes to do with your grandkids. You were our sunshine.
God gave Janis a long blessed life, rejoice. In Janis’ honor: Call your mom. Hug your loved ones. Create new family memories. Plant something that will attract butterflies. Meet friends for lunch. Get a massage. Put on your lipstick and eat the cake!
Please join us for Janis’ memorial celebration on July 14, 2018 at Christ Evangelical Presbyterian Church. It will be at 11:00 am in the Chapel. Per Janis’ instructions wear bright happy colors. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the nursery at Christ Evangelical. 8300 Katy Freeway, Houston, TX 77024.
