Janis Lutz

Janis Phillips Lutz, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother, and friend passed away peacefully on September 23, 2026, after a long and courageous battle with Alzheimer’s. Born on October 3, 1945, in Abilene, Texas. Janis was the cherished daughter of A.J. and Judel Phillips.

Janis graduated from Odessa High School in 1964, where her passion for history began to blossom. Her deep-rooted curiosity for the past was something she cherished throughout her life. She married out of high school and as a military wife she traveled and moved around the United States and overseas. Along the way she had three beautiful children, Lori and “the twins” (Greg and Jeff), that gave her joy and purpose. After returning from Germany and settling in College Station for several years, life took on a new chapter as a single mom, following her divorce. She found support and her calling in service, dedicating herself to her role as church secretary at Parkway Baptist Church, where she witnessed the baptism of all three of her children. Her faith was a guiding light in her life and her church a source of support, leading her to serve at church camps and mission sites across the United States.

In 1987, Janis married Marvin Lutz, a union fondly described as a match put together by God. Together they crafted a life filled with love and devotion, each teaching the other about selfless, Godly love. Marvin often says that Janis saved him, yet it was through Marvin that Janis learned the true depth of devotion.

Janis’ warmth and kindness were felt by all who knew her. She was known for her quick wit and her genuine heart for service to others. An avid golfer, Janis and Marvin enjoyed countless rounds together, even participating in charity tournaments. Her hole-in-one was a point of pride, a story she loved to share, always with a laugh and a twinkle in her eye that Marvin adored.

Her love for quilting was a testament to her nurturing spirit. Janis crafted countless quilts and quillows, which she lovingly donated to children at mission sites and shelters. Her hands were never idle, always busy creating comfort and warmth for those in need.

A long-time member of Parkway Baptist Church and later Chapel of the Hills, Janis was deeply involved in leading Bible studies and guiding women in their spiritual journeys. Her faith was her cornerstone, and she shared it with grace and humility.

Janis is survived by her devoted husband, Marvin Lutz: her daughter, Lori Griffith; her son, Jeff Griffith and his wife, Sheila; her daughter-in-law, Trish Griffith; her stepson, Wayne Lutz and his wife, Cindy Jo; her stepson, Ricky Lutz and his wife, Candy; and her stepdaughter, Cindy Hurst. Her legacy lives on through her ten grandchildren, Emma, Nicholas, Abigail, Cory, Cadee, Carlee, Lacy, Jason, Ashley and Barbara Jo and seven great grandchildren, each a testament to her enduring love and dedication.

Preceded in death by her parents and her beloved son, Gregory P. Griffith, Janis is now at peace, reunited with them in eternity.

A service to honor Janis’s life will be held on October 1, 2026, Visitation will be at 10:00 a.m. and service 11:00 a.m. at Chapel of the Hills, located at 19135 TX-29 Lake Buchanan, TX 78609. Burial will be at Bluffton, Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to organizations supporting Alzheimer research or to a charity of your choice, in memory of Janis’s compassionate spirit and her dedication to serving others.

Janis will be remembered for her warmth, her humor, and her unwavering faith. She touched the lives of countless individuals, leaving behind a legacy of love and service that will continue to inspire all who knew her.