Janice Rae Kothe

Janice "Jan" Kothe, 90, of Collierville, Tennessee, passed away on May 10, 2026, on her birthday, after a life lived with spirit, courage, and grace. She was born on May 10, 1936, in Duluth, Minnesota.

Jan was a woman who faced life's challenges head-on, never allowing illness or hardship to dim her spirit or slow her down. A woman of Methodist faith, she carried her beliefs as a quiet strength throughout her life. In her younger years, she was an accomplished surgical nurse, bringing skill and compassion to her patients. It was during that season of life that she met the love of her life, a young Coast Guard sailor named Herbert Kothe, and the two began a life together that would span over sixty years.

Jan and Herb chose to grow their family through adoption, a decision that reflected the depth of their hearts. She was a devoted mother - steadfast, loving, and always present. After living many years in Minnesota, Ohio, and Maryland, she called Tennessee home in her later years, cherishing the time she spent living next door to her family.

Jan was preceded in death by her daughter, Evie Kothe; her step-son, Paul Kothe; her grandson, Zachary Kothe, and her granddaughter Rebekah Kothe.

She is survived by her devoted husband, Herbert Kothe; her son, Jim Kothe; her step-daughter, Karen Guigno; and her grandchildren, Nolan Kothe, Jimmy Kothe, Angela Everett, Rachel McGee, Hope Everett, and Faith Everett.

Jan Kothe lived ninety full years and she made every one of them count. She will be deeply missed and forever loved.