Janet Lee Pursell, 81, of Herrin passed away at home on April 17, 2026. Janet was born May 7, 1944 in DuQuoin, IL to Robert and Ida (Spencer) Gibner. She married James R. "Jim" Pursell on April 27, 1963 in DuQuoin.

With heavy hearts and deep gratitude for a life well lived, we remember a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend who she spent a lifetime giving so freely to others.

She was the proud and devoted mother of three sons, and nothing brought her greater joy than her family. Her grandchildren and great-grandchildren were truly her whole world-each one a source of pride, laughter, and endless love. She built a legacy not just in years, but in the lives she nurtured and the memories she created. One of her favorites sayings to any mishap or misfortune was "Memories"!

For 36 years, she and her husband, Jim were the heart behind the Dairy Queen in Herrin, where her strong work ethic, kindness, and familiar smile made her a cherished part of the community.

Outside of work, she had a passion for collecting antiques, finding beauty and history in each piece. She never passed up the opportunity to stop at an antique store or flea market and had an eye for the nostalgic items. She and Jim enjoyed setting up and being vendors at various antique shows. These adventures brought her so much joy and many friendships throughout the country.

A woman of deep faith, she followed Christ with quiet strength and unwavering devotion. Her faith guided her life and shaped the love she poured into others.

Holidays were especially dear to her. She cherished having her family gathered under one roof, believing there was no greater blessing than being surrounded by those she loved most. Her home was the heart of every celebration-a place of laughter, tradition, and togetherness. She wanted everyone to have memories of going to Grandmas for the holidays.

She leaves behind a family who will forever carry her love in their hearts and honor her legacy through the way they care for one another.She is survived by her sons, James R. "Jay" (Bec) Pursell, Jr of McKinney, TX, and Matt (Terri) Pursell of Herrin. Her grandchildren: Ryan (Sydney) Pursell, Spencer Pursell, Rachel (Nick) Neipert, Jake (Hailey) Pursell, Cassandra Pursell, Brendan (Madilynn) Pursell, Lauren (Brock) Pursell, Jace Pursell, and Kate Pursell. Great-grandchildren: Poppy and Pepper Pursell, Kane Neipert, James, Daniel, and Stevie Pursell, Ty and Jaelen Mitchell. She is also survived by her 3 best friends: Charlotte DeChristina, Sue McGinnis, and Nancy Morgan.

She is preceded in death by her husband, Jim. Her son, Keith Lee and her parents.

She will be deeply missed, forever remembered, and always loved.

A funeral service celebrating a life well lived will take place at 1:00 PM, Friday, April 24, 2026 at Harmony Freewill Baptist Church/14715 Harmony Church Road/ West Frankfort, IL. 62896. Pastor Ben Eldridge will officiate. Burial will follow at Denning Cemetery in West Frankfort. A time of visitation will be from 11:00 am until time of service, Friday at Harmony Freewill Baptist Church in West Frankfort. Funeral Arrangements were entrusted to McCluskie Funeral Home in Herrin. Memorial donations are suggested to Harmony Freewill Baptist Church and will be accepted during time of service or may be mailed to McCluskie Funeral Home/ 501 S. 12th/ Herrin, IL. 62948.For more information please visit mccluskiemillerfh.com or call (618) 942-2020

."Well done, good and faithful servant" Matthew 25:23

Harmony Freewill Baptist Church
14715 Harmony Church Road, West Frankfort IL 62896
Tel: 1-618-937-2878