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Jan Lancelot Obituary
Jan (Clark) Lancelot, formerly of St. Joseph and Niles, died peacefully on March 9, 2026, at age 85.
She was preceded in death by her husband of 66 years, Jerry, in 2024.
She is survived by their three children: Sue Parker of Texas, Bob (Terri) of Massachusetts and Greg (Tracey) of Arkansas; her sister, Mary (Roy) Cacciatore of Freeport, N.Y., and three sisters-in-law. Jan dearly loved her six grandchildren: Mike (Cristina), Kyle (Francie), Kate (Jack), Cody (Madison), Austin, and Grant (Cassidy) and her six great-grandchildren: Sofia, Samantha, Thomas, Quinn, Charlie and Nora. She treasured spending time with her family and friends, travel, golfing, book clubs, gardening and singing in her church choir.
Jan retired in 2000 from the St. Joseph and Berrien Springs Public Schools where she taught for more than 22 years. She was often approached by former students who would tell her how much she meant to them as a teacher and give her a hug.
She served as president of the Newcomers Club and Marian Guild in St. Joseph and was the English department chair and yearbook advisor at St. Joseph High School for many years. She was active in her church and the AAUW (American Association of University Women).
Born and raised in Bancroft, Iowa, Jan graduated from St. John's High School and met her future husband there when he was in her older brother Jim's wedding party.
Jan was elected the state of Iowa 4-H president and Miss North Iowa in 1958 before attending Iowa State University. She was a proud member of the Kappa Alpha Theta sorority and was chosen the Sweetheart of Sigma Chi. She finished her bachelor's of arts degree at Drake University in 1962 and later earned a master's of arts in education degree from Michigan State University.
She brought joy to the lives of so many. Her love, kindness and constant smile will not be forgotten.
In lieu of flowers, she wished any memorial gifts be made to the St. Joseph Public Schools Foundation at sjpsfoundation.org.
A family memorial service will be held to celebrate Jan and Jerry.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Jan Lancelot
Lori Khan
March 22, 2026
We bought the Lancelot home on Acorn Drive in 2003. I worked with Jerry and Jan was a Teacher like my husband. They wanted the home to belong to another family. Through the years, we thought of the Lancelot family fondly, thankful that they passed their home on to us. May Jan rest in peace. The Khan Family
DIANA WILLIAMS
March 15, 2026
Mrs. Lancelot was my high-school English teacher. She always had a smile and made class a great learning environment. She was also very compassionate and a true mentor for her students. My deepest condolences to her family.
Beth (Hanley) Mandarino
March 14, 2026
Dear Sue, Bob and Greg,
I am SO sorry to hear about your Mom. She was a wonderful lady - so kind and what a beautiful smile! She will be missed by so many! You are in my thoughts and prayers!
Donna Dumke
March 13, 2026
Jan was a beautiful friend, mentor, and colleague. So proud to have shared our love of English and teaching.
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Sharon McFall
March 12, 2026
Wonderful memories of golfing with Jan. She made you feel so comfortable even if you were having a bad day. Condolences to her family she'll be missed.
Sharon
Diane Cronk
March 11, 2026
I golfed with Jan for several years. I will miss that wonderful laugh. My condolences to her family.
Mary Griffin
March 11, 2026
Jan was a great lady and she had the very best laugh! I enjoyed her friendship in golf and book club and will remember her fondly. I send my condolences to the family - she will certainly be missed.
Harriet Fareell
March 11, 2026
Many wonderful memories of working with Jan at St. Joe Schools and playing golf with her on Thursday morning. Much sympathy and love to her family! Harriet Farwell
Judy felland
March 11, 2026
We started in newcomers together eons ago. Then golfed together and enjoyed our book club gatherings. She was a special lady and friend.
Judy felland
Michele Demchinski
March 11, 2026
My deepest sympathy to the family. Jan was a wonderful teacher at SJHS and so glad our son was in her class. I had many fun times with Jan on the golf course and our league misses her laughter and beautiful smile. Sending prayers.
Sharon McFall
March 11, 2026
Sending prayers and condolenscesn for Jan and family. I enjoyed many years of golf with Jan and her beautiful smile and attitude.
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