Janet Corley, known for her boundless kindness, and unwavering love for her family and community, passed away peacefully on February 8, 2025. Born on September 29, 1955, in Oklahoma City, OK, Janet lived a life filled with love, purpose, and adventure.
For 50 wonderful years, she shared a life with her high school sweetheart, Steve—a bond filled with love, laughter, and plenty of good-natured eye rolls. Their journey began at Okmulgee High School, where they first met, and together, they built a beautiful family, raising three incredible children: Michael, Kyle, and Kelly. But of all the roles she cherished, none brought her more joy than being ‘Gran’ to her beloved grandson, Lane.
A lifelong learner, Janet earned her associate’s degree from Oscar Rose Junior College, her bachelor’s from the Central State University, and her master’s from the University of Oklahoma (Boomer Sooner, of course). Education wasn’t just a pursuit for her—it was a passion she championed, constantly inspiring others to learn, question, and grow.
Her passion for helping others stretched far beyond her family. Janet was a force for good in Norman, dedicating her time to Meals on Wheels, Food and Shelter for Friends, The Christmas Store, CCFI, Bethesda, PEO International, Habitat for Humanity, CASA, Big Brothers Big Sisters, National Exchange Club, Norman Coalition for Refugee Support, United Way of Norman and the outdoor classroom at Jackson Elementary, among many others. If there was a way to help, she was on it—usually with a plan already in motion.
Janet’s love for creativity and nature brought her immense joy. She had a passion for fused glass and watercolor art, found peace in swimming and gardening, and embraced the thrill of travel—always eager to explore new places, cultures, and experiences."
Through life’s challenges, Janet held firmly to her belief that love, family, and faith would see her through. She often reminded us, 'Love travels well.' Though she is no longer physically with us, her love, wisdom, and spirit will continue to surround and guide us always.
She is preceded in death by her mother Waynel Cook; father Jack Cook; father-in-law Steve Corley; and mother-in-law Pat Corley. She is survived by her husband Steve; children Michael (Trish), Kyle (Beth), and Kelly (Robert); grandson Lane; sister Barbie Swinton (Charlie); brother Jim Cook (Svetlana), brother-in-law Paul Corley (Denise); sister-in-law Karen Rivera (Chris); beloved chosen grandparents Hugh and Barbara Wilson; several nieces and nephews and countless friends, loved ones and beneficiaries of her kindness.
A celebration of Janet’s life will be held at First Christian Church of Norman on February 11, 2025, at 2:00 PM. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to one of the organizations listed above or to the Glioblastoma Foundation. Or, in true Janet fashion, simply take a moment to be kind, lend a helping hand, and brighten someone’s day.
Tuesday, February 11, 2025
Starts at 2:00 pm (Central time)
First Christian Church
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