Remembering Janet Merritt: A Life of Dedication and Altruism
Janet Marie Babin Merritt, a devoted Louisiana State employee, passed away on January 8, 2024, leaving behind a legacy of service and compassion. With 34 years of dedication to the state, Janet’s contributions extended far beyond her official retirement in 2009. As a devout member of her community, she served on the parish council and was recognized for her commitment to public service. Janet’s altruistic nature was not limited to her professional life; she actively participated in various organizations and always lent a helping hand to friends and family. Join us as we celebrate the life of Janet Merritt, a remarkable individual who touched the lives of many.
Janet Merritt Obituary
It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Janet Marie Babin Merritt, a beloved member of the Louisiana State community. Janet dedicated her life to serving the state, leaving behind a legacy of compassion and dedication. Born on November 19, 1955, in Donaldsonville, LA, Janet’s commitment to public service spanned over three decades. She worked tirelessly under the Department of Health and Hospitals, retiring in 2009 but continuing to contribute in a part-time capacity until her passing on January 8, 2024, at the age of 68.
Janet’s impact extended far beyond her professional life. She was a devout member of Our Lady of the Holy Rosary Catholic Church, where she served on the parish council and was a dedicated member of the Catholic Daughters of America for over 45 years. Her selflessness and dedication to others earned her recognition from the Louisiana Public Health Association, who honored her with the prestigious Meritorious Service Award in April 2023, now named in her honor.
Janet’s altruistic nature was not limited to her work and religious affiliations. She actively participated in Lion’s Club International and the Clerical Association of Louisiana, always ready to lend a helping hand to friends and family without expecting anything in return. Her interests were diverse, ranging from spending quality time with her extensive family to indulging in her love for dining out, reading and writing poetry, binge-watching television shows, enjoying casinos, and bowling.
Janet is survived by her loving son, Christian Merritt, her daughter Charity Merritt Ford and her husband Keith, as well as her three adored grandsons, Sawyer, Cooper, and Logan Ford. She is also survived by her mother, Cornelia LeBlanc Babin, her brothers Whitney P. Babin Jr., Dwayne Babin, and Dale Babin, and her sisters Brenda Babin Lebourgeois and Darla Babin Lewis. Additionally, she leaves behind numerous nieces, nephews, and countless friends who will cherish her memory.
A visitation will be held on Tuesday, January 16, 2024, at Holy Rosary Catholic Church in Saint Amant, LA, starting at 9:00 am. This will be followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00 am. The burial will take place at the Church Cemetery, preceded by the reading of the rosary at 10 am. In honor of Janet’s generous spirit, the family kindly requests that memorial donations be made in her name to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and the Full of Grace Cafe at Holy Rosary Church.
Life and Career
Janet Marie Babin Merritt led a remarkable life dedicated to public service. Born on November 19, 1955, in Donaldsonville, LA, she embarked on a career that spanned over three decades, leaving an indelible mark on the Louisiana State community. Janet’s unwavering commitment to her work was evident in her 34 years of service under the Department of Health and Hospitals. Although she officially retired in 2009, her passion for making a difference led her to continue contributing in a part-time capacity until her passing in 2024.
Janet’s dedication extended beyond her professional life. As a devout member of Our Lady of the Holy Rosary Catholic Church, she actively served on the parish council and was a cherished member of the Catholic Daughters of America for over 45 years. Her unwavering faith and involvement in her religious community brought comfort and inspiration to those around her.
Throughout her life, Janet’s altruistic nature shone through in her involvement with various organizations. She was an active participant in Lion’s Club International and the Clerical Association of Louisiana, always ready to lend a helping hand to those in need. Janet’s selflessness and genuine care for others were evident in her interactions with friends and family, as she consistently went above and beyond to support and assist them.
Recognition and Awards
Janet Marie Babin Merritt’s exceptional dedication to public service did not go unnoticed. Her tireless efforts and commitment to improving the lives of others earned her well-deserved recognition throughout her career. In April 2023, the Louisiana Public Health Association honored Janet with the prestigious Meritorious Service Award, a testament to her outstanding contributions to the field. This esteemed recognition has since been named in her honor, forever commemorating her legacy of excellence.
Janet’s impact extended far beyond her professional achievements. Her genuine care for others and her unwavering commitment to making a difference in her community were evident in her involvement with various organizations. Her selfless contributions to Lion’s Club International and the Clerical Association of Louisiana further exemplified her dedication to serving others. Janet’s remarkable character and unwavering commitment to making a positive impact will continue to inspire and be remembered by all those whose lives she touched.
Janet’s Altruistic Nature
Janet Marie Babin Merritt was known for her selfless and compassionate nature, always putting the needs of others before her own. Throughout her life, she demonstrated a genuine care for her community and a strong desire to make a positive impact on the lives of those around her.
Involvement in Community Organizations
Janet’s commitment to serving others extended beyond her professional career. She actively participated in various community organizations, dedicating her time and energy to causes she believed in. Janet was a valued member of Lion’s Club International, where she worked alongside like-minded individuals to support charitable initiatives and make a difference in the lives of those in need. Additionally, she was an active member of the Clerical Association of Louisiana, contributing her skills and expertise to benefit the community.
Janet’s involvement in these organizations allowed her to connect with people from diverse backgrounds and forge meaningful relationships. Her willingness to lend a helping hand and her genuine care for others made her a beloved member of these communities.
Interests and Hobbies
When Janet wasn’t dedicating her time to serving others, she enjoyed pursuing her personal interests and hobbies. She had a deep love for literature and could often be found engrossed in a good book. Janet also had a talent for writing poetry, using it as a creative outlet to express her thoughts and emotions.
In her leisure time, Janet enjoyed indulging in her love for dining out, savoring delicious meals and exploring different cuisines. She also found joy in binge-watching television shows, immersing herself in captivating storylines and memorable characters. Janet’s adventurous spirit led her to enjoy the excitement of casinos, where she would try her luck and embrace the thrill of the games.
Another hobby that brought Janet joy was bowling. Whether it was a friendly competition with friends or a casual game with family, she relished the camaraderie and laughter that came with this beloved pastime.
Janet’s diverse range of interests and hobbies showcased her vibrant personality and zest for life. These activities allowed her to find joy and relaxation, providing a well-rounded balance to her altruistic endeavors.
Surviving Family and Funeral Arrangements
Janet Marie Babin Merritt is survived by her loving family, who will forever cherish her memory. She leaves behind her son, Christian Merritt, and her daughter, Charity Merritt Ford, along with her son-in-law, Keith. Janet was a proud grandmother to three grandsons, Sawyer, Cooper, and Logan Ford, who brought immense joy to her life.
Surviving Family Members
In addition to her immediate family, Janet is survived by her mother, Cornelia LeBlanc Babin, who provided her with unwavering love and support throughout her life. She also leaves behind her brothers, Whitney P. Babin Jr., Dwayne Babin, and Dale Babin, as well as her sisters, Brenda Babin Lebourgeois and Darla Babin Lewis. Janet’s extended family includes numerous nieces, nephews, and many loving friends, all of whom were touched by her kindness and generosity.
Visitation and Funeral Details
A visitation to honor Janet’s life will be held on Tuesday, January 16, 2024, at Holy Rosary Catholic Church in Saint Amant, LA. The visitation will begin at 9:00 am, providing an opportunity for family, friends, and community members to pay their respects and offer condolences.
Following the visitation, a Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 am, allowing loved ones to come together in prayer and remembrance. The burial will take place at the Church Cemetery, preceded by the reading of the rosary at 10:00 am. These solemn ceremonies will provide a space for reflection and celebration of Janet’s life, allowing those who knew her to find solace and support in one another.
Memorial Donations
In honor of Janet’s legacy of generosity and compassion, the family kindly requests that memorial donations be made in her name to two meaningful causes. Contributions to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital will support their mission of providing life-saving treatments and care to children battling serious illnesses. Additionally, donations to the Full of Grace Cafe at Holy Rosary Church will honor Janet’s commitment to her faith community and their efforts to provide nourishment and support to those in need.
By making these memorial donations, we can continue Janet’s legacy of kindness and make a positive impact on the lives of others, just as she did throughout her remarkable life.
It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Janet Marie Babin Merritt, a dedicated Louisiana State employee. Janet devoted 34 years of her life to public service, primarily under the Department of Health and Hospitals. Her commitment to her community extended beyond her professional life, as she actively participated in various organizations and demonstrated a true servant’s heart. Janet’s legacy of generosity and compassion will be honored through memorial donations to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and the Full of Grace Cafe at Holy Rosary Church. Our thoughts and condolences go out to her family and friends during this difficult time.
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