Janet Elizabeth Wheeler

Janet Elizabeth Wheeler, 70, of Phoenix, Arizona passed away peacefully on Tuesday, April 1st, 2025. Born in Cairo, Egypt on December 6th, 1954, Janet's life journey was one of rich experiences and lasting impact.

Janet spent her early years living in a variety of places around the world. She attended high school at Aiglon in Switzerland, where she developed a love for learning and culture that would remain with her throughout her life. After her time in Switzerland, Janet lived in London with her parents for several years, further broadening her horizons before making her way to San Francisco. It was in San Francisco that she met her future husband, Richard Wheeler, with whom she shared over 40 years of love and partnership.

Janet and Richard eventually settled in Phoenix, Arizona, where she dedicated herself to a lifelong passion for education. Janet founded the Community Montessori School in Phoenix, which she ran for many years. The school became a beacon for children and their families, providing an environment where young minds could flourish. Janet was an AMI-certified teacher, further enhancing the quality of education she provided. Her impact on the lives of her students and their families is immeasurable; through her tireless dedication, she helped shape the lives of hundreds of children, instilling in them a love of learning and a sense of self-worth. Janet's favorite saying was, "We feed the intellect, we nurture the spirit, and we love the child," a philosophy that guided her work and touched the lives of many.

Janet is survived by her loving husband, Richard Wheeler, and their son and daughter-in-law, Keith and Cheyenne Wheeler. She was a devoted wife, mother, and friend, and will be remembered for her warmth, her intellect, and her unwavering commitment to education and to the people she loved.

A celebration of Janet's life will be held at a later date. Janet will be greatly missed by all who knew her, but her legacy will live on through the many lives she touched. May she rest in peace, forever remembered for her kindness, generosity, and love for others.