Janette Arlene Roberts

Janette Arlene (Pollom) Roberts, Lawrence, passed away Saturday, April 15, 2017 at Bridge Haven.
Born August 16, 1928 in Lawrence, KS to Marguerite and C.W. Pollom, Jan graduated from Kansas University (1950) with a degree in Home Economics. Upon graduation, she worked for the Kansas Gas Company as a nutritionist, in what was actually a Public Relations position; she paid visits to gas company customers who had recently purchased appliances – instructing them on their proper use and providing nutrition tips.
It was while working for the Gas Company in Parsons, KS that Jan met and married William G (Bill) Roberts Jr (June 1, 1952) who preceded her in death in 1986.
In the late 60s, Jan made the decision to embark on a career in Education. With three grade­school age children, after a stint teaching 5th grade at Cordley elementary, she returned to KU where she earned a B.S in Education, which was followed by a Masters in Special Education. Upon receiving her Masters, she served students at Central Jr. High. She later became a learning disabilities resource for District 497 and worked at East Heights, Woodlawn and St. John’s. At each stage in her career, she earned the respect of students and faculty alike by putting students’ needs first. In 1981 she was recognized as Outstanding Special Education Teacher, awarded by the Kansas Association of Special Education Administrators.
Jan is survived by three children, William Griffith III (Biff ) and wife Patricia, Montgomery, AL; Scott, Ottawa and Megan Allin and husband Dennis, Lenexa. She is also survived by 10 grandchildren and two great-grandchildren, as well as a sister, Marilyn Adams, Lawrence.
Her legacy of education will continue as she has requested that her body be donated to the Kansas University Medical Center to help train future medical professionals.
At Jan’s request, the family will hold a private celebration of life party.
Jan and the family request that donations be made to either the Salvation Army, Lawrence VNA­Hospice or Bridge Haven (1701 Research Park Dr., Lawrence, KS 66044) and may be sent in care of Warren­McElwain Mortuary.
Online condolences may be posted at warrenmcelwain.com. Please sign this guestbook at Obituaries.LJWorld.com.