Janet Marie Merk Thomas

Ms. Janet Marie Merk Thomas, 66, of Dunn-Worley Road, Elberton, entered into rest on Sunday, June 5, 2022, at Fairview Park Hospital in Dublin. Janet was born in Athens on May 17, 1956, and spent her childhood in Waycross where she graduated high school.

She graduated from Abraham Baldwin Agriculture College with an associates degree in wildlife management. Ms. Thomas worked as a park ranger at Laura S. Waker State Park before pursuing a career in teaching.

Janet obtained her Bachelor of Science in Education in English-Language Arts and Science, and her Masters Degree in Middle Grades Education, both from the University of Georgia. She was employed at Elbert County Middle School and Beaverdam Elementary School prior to her retirement. Ms. Thomas served as President of the Elbert County Chapter of both the Georgia Association of Educators and the National Educators Association.

Janet was a member of Celebration Outreach Center and enjoyed visiting the beach and traveling.

Survivors include her children: Jaryl Thomas of Evans and Sallie and Randall Partain of Hartwell; sisters: Joyce Prescott of Waycross and Jenny Pitts of Adel; and grandchildren: Bondsie Partain, Bristol Partain, and Berklee Partain.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Harry Johnston Merk, Jr. and Shirley Lee Peterson Merk; and brother, James Merk.

A memorial service celebrating Janet’s life will be held at Celebration Outreach Center at a date and time to be announced.

Those wishing may sign the online guestbook at www.berryfh.com.

Berry Funeral Home & Crematory of Elberton is assisting the family of Ms. Janet Marie Merk Thomas.