Janis Deay Vandiver's Obituary
Janis Sue (Deay) Vandiver of Bentonville, Arkansas died at her home November 6th, 2020 of Alzheimer's disease. Janis was born on October 17, 1950 in Bentonville to Thurman Russell Deay and Hazel Elizabeth (Strate) Deay.
Janis graduated from Bentonville High School in 1969 where she was Homecoming Queen and a cheerleader along with many activities involving the Bentonville community. Janis then received her Bachelor of Science in Education in 1981 from the University of Arkansas.
Janis married Vernon Leroy Vandiver on July 19, 1984 and they were married for 28 years before his death on June 27, 2011. Janis was also preceded in death by her parents and only sibling, Sheryl Lynn (Deay) Rainwater.
Janis is survived by her Niece Ashley Rainwater Malone and husband Richie of Katy, Texas and two Great Nephews Rhett and Tate, two Stepdaughters Christy Vandiver of Gentry and Vicki (Vandiver) Taylor and husband Heath, of Bentonville; two Stepsons Adam Vandiver and wife Toia, of Bentonville and Rick Vandiver and wife Tristan of Bentonville. Additionally, Janis is survived by her adored grandchildren, Amy Koch and husband Matt of Bella Vista, Scott Mize and wife Shelbi of Pea Ridge, Ashley Wolfenden and husband Ross of Pea Ridge, Trevor Taylor and wife, Haley of Bella Vista, Heather Taylor of Bentonville, Eli Vandiver of Little Rock, Haley Vandiver, Madison and Arielle Vandiver all of Bentonville; Andrew Vandiver of Bentonville, and one step grandson, Mark Xayprasith of Seattle, Washington and great-grandchildren, Collin and William Koch of Bella Vista, Owen Harris, Hudson Winkley and Drake and Mason Wolfenden of Pea Ridge, Ethan and Blakeleigh Mize of Pea Ridge, Sarah Mize of Berryville, Easton Shumate of Bentonville, Mason Taylor of Bella Vista, many nieces and nephews, cousins and a multitude of friends.
Janis is also survived by her cousin Sharon (Adamson) Clark and husband Jim, and caregivers Patsy Rigsbee, Patty O'Bannon, and Yvette Martinez, who cared for her in her final years of life, allowing her to remain at her home, which was her fervent wish.
Janis was a well-known realtor in Northwest Arkansas and worked with her best friend Rich Shriver at A-1 Realty (former1y Century 21) in Bentonville for 35 years with Numerous prestigious awards throughout her Career. Janis enjoyed helping people find the right home and showing clients the beauty of her hometown. She was also a lifelong member of the Bentonville Church of Christ. Janis was an avid Arkansas Razorback fan who enjoyed spending time with her family and friends cheering on the Hogs. She made Christmas magical with her amazing decorating skills and always ensured each family member was showered with gifts and love at every special occasion. Janis never met a dog she did not love and would never tum down the opportunity for chocolate or a trip to the beach.
Graveside services for burial will be conducted at Elm Springs Cemetery in Elm Springs, Arkansas 1:00 p.m. Thursday November 12, 2020 for family and close friends. A celebration of life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made in Janis Vandiver's name to Circle of Life hospice at https://nwacircleoflife.com/donatesupportl#donatenow or Alzheimer's Research Foundation at https://www.alzheimersresearchfoundation.com.
To leave an online condolence please visit www.stockdalemoody.com
What’s your fondest memory of Janis?
What’s a lesson you learned from Janis?
Share a story where Janis' kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Janis you’ll never forget.
How did Janis make you smile?
