Life story

"On October 27th, 1970, Janell was born to parents Shelle and Darnell in Chicago, Illinois. As a young one, Janell was always bright-eyed and cheery, taking joy in reading, writing, and spending time with an abundance of cousins and family. As a young woman, she went on to achieve academic excellence with ease, and served in the U.S Navy. Her passion for learning and service eventually led her to earn her master’s degree in social work, which marked the beginning of a passionate career.


As a daughter, sister, mother, wife, and social worker Janell made helping others her life’s work. As someone who thrived on understanding others, she believed in the acceptance, nurturing, and having faith in God. She lived and loved unapologetically, and let her desire to befriend and heal everything she touched lead her. When she wasn’t looking after others in need, she could be found cooking, chitchatting, or catching up on her favorite crime shows.

Her passion lives on through each of us, in our ability to heal simply by listening and understanding those around us. I ask that you honor her by loving and accepting every part of yourself completely, and in turn sharing that same love with those around you. To be deeply understood and embraced is the greatest form of love one can ever share. "