Born July 20, 1940 to Audry “Tootsie” (Barber) Alford and G. Warren Alford, she was big sister of Glenn Alford, and cousin to Fred Combs, who she considered her brother, both of Tempe. She was proud to call herself an Arizona Native. She was just as proud to represent Phoenix Union High School (’58) as a cheerleader, Homecoming Queen, FFA Sweetheart and ROTC Princess, as well as, an officer in several other clubs and organizations. She carried over her Coyote Pride with many years of work with the PUHS Alumni, where she would eventually reconnect with, and later marry, her classmate Ray Elms, with whom she celebrated 15 years of marriage.
She was a school secretary for many years, moving to Tempe, AZ in 1975, where she established a successful career as a Realtor for over 42 years. She was very active in the Womens’ Council of Realtors, and served as state president and national representative, and earned many honors within her profession. She was very proud of her career history, and made many lifelong friendships.
She enjoyed her community, and spent many hours volunteering at the Sun Lakes United Methodist Church, and with Neighbors Who Care.
Janet was an amazing mother, mother-in-law, and even better Grammy. She loved sports, entertaining, traveling, and anything to do with her family, immediate and extended. Known for wearing bright colors and lots of bling, she love to dance, and was always up for silly shenanigans with her friends, of whom there are too many to mention.
She is survived by her husband, Ray, of Sun Lakes, her children Mike (Nicole) Hold of West Columbia, SC and Lisa (Vince) Beemiller of Chandler, and grandchildren Holden, Harrison, and Heath Beemiller, and Hudsen Hold. She attended any event or game that she could, and maintained incredibly close relationships with each of them, and they are forever grateful for her part in their lives.
Services will be announced soon, hopefully when it is safer to gather so that her many friends and family members can celebrate her amazing life together.
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