Janet Elaine (Slade) Tower peacefully passed away in her home on Jan. 14, 2024. Janet was born in Kingman, Kan., on May 4, 1944, and moved to Holbrook at age three. In high school, she performed in the drum and bugle corps and portrayed the Holbrook Roadrunner mascot, showcasing her outgoing nature. She married her first husband, Patrick Kenny, in 1965, and moved to the Midwest. Janet welcomed her daughter Kelly in 1968 and her daughter Teri in 1971 before the family moved back to Holbrook in 1975.
Throughout her life, Janet was dedicated to her community. She worked for the Holbrook schools, post office and Navajo County while raising her children. In 1995, she moved to Prescott Valley with her husband, LeRoy Tower and enjoyed taking road trips throughout the country, including visiting San Antonio, Texas, to visit her grandchildren. In 2011, when her youngest grandson was diagnosed with spinal muscular atrophy at six months old, Janet devoted herself to helping the family care for him.
Janet was known for her friendly personality. She had a knack for striking up conversations with people everywhere she went. She loved movies, TV and all things related to entertainment. She also had a natural affinity for children, who gravitated to her warmth, silliness and caring demeanor.
Janet was fiercely independent and strong-willed, traits that defined her character. Her deep patriotism and commitment to democratic values led her to be an enthusiastic volunteer at election voting locations. She also generously donated to organizations that supported disabled veterans and the poor.
The family will hold a celebration of Janet’s life later this year. For those who wish to honor her memory, charitable donations can be made to local food banks, the Democratic Party, Disabled American Veterans, or Cure SMA.
Janet was preceded her in death by her parents, Lloyd Slade and LaWanda (Slade) Connolly; husband, LeRoy Tower; brother, Steven Slade; daughter, Kelly Kenny; and grandson, Dylan Speece.
She is survived by her brothers, Joseph and Roger Slade; sisters-in-law, Valerie, Gayle and Eliza Slade; daughter, Teri Speece; son-in-law, Jason Speece; grandson, Colin Speece; and numerous nieces and nephews. Janet’s legacy of kindness, generosity, and civic engagement will be cherished by all who knew her.
