Lois Jean Kanelos, known lovingly by her family as “Memaw,” age 84, of Mechanicsburg, passed peacefully at home on December 11th, 2024. She is survived by her children James Kanelos, Jr. and his wife Denise, Theresa Carr and her husband Tommy, and Walter Kanelos and his wife Katina. Her grandchildren, Tyler Kanelos, Chris Shirk, Alexa Kanelos and Elana Kanelos and multiple nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband of 47 years, James Kanelos Sr.
Memaw loved spending time with her grandchildren. She loved gardening, singing, and listening to music. She loved to bowl and was a member of a women’s bowling league for over 20 years. She was an avid Philadelphia Phillies and Eagles fan.
Memaw was born in Barbourville KY. She met her husband there when he took a job as a DJ at a local radio station. Known as “Jimmy James, the Brooklyn Cowboy”, together they sang and performed country music. Memaw was briefly signed to Colgems Records, and together, they toured and performed. They later settled in Pennsylvania to raise their family.
She was a beloved Memaw and will be greatly missed by her family and friends.
