Janis Joy “Jan” Prather of Mears, Michigan, a loving wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully on August 7, 2026, following a long illness. She was born on April 20, 1945, in Freeport, Illinois, to Roy and Doris Hefty.

Raised in Orangeville, Illinois, Jan graduated from Orangeville High School in the Class of 1963. She later attended Rock Valley College, where she met Joel Prather. They were married and shared 59 years together, building a life centered on family, faith, and commitment to one another.

Jan went on to attend Lakeshore Community College, earning an associate degree and RN certification. She worked for many years in home health care, where she provided care and support to patients and their families.

In 1982, Jan and Joel made their home in Mears, Michigan. Jan was devoted to her family. She was a strong and supportive presence in the lives of her children, Gordy Prather and Heidi Moilanen. She especially enjoyed her role as grandmother to Samuel, Nathan, and Seth Prather.

Jan was a member of Hart United Methodist Church and was active in her community. She volunteered at Ferry Elementary and the Shelby Early Childhood Center. She was also part of the Helping Hands Quilt Group.

She enjoyed reading, knitting, camping, walking her dogs, and playing cards. She valued time with family and friends and was known for her kind and outgoing nature.

Jan was preceded in death by her parents, Roy and Doris Hefty, and her sister, Sue Johnson.

She is survived by her husband, Joel; her children, Gordy Prather and Heidi Moilanen; and her grandchildren, Samuel, Nathan, and Seth Prather.

A service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on August 22, 2026, at Mears United Methodist Church, to be followed by a luncheon.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Mears United Methodist Church or a charity of your choice.

Beacon Cremation & Funeral Service, King-Hart Chapel is in charge of arrangements.

www.beaconfh.com