Janet Slone Leming Murrian
The world lost a singularly radiant smile with the passing of Janet Murrian on October 19,
2019, at age 78.
Janet Marie Slone was born February 11, 1941, in Greeneville, TN to James C. Slone and
Charlotte Kennon Slone. She grew up in a beautiful Victorian home built by her greatgrandfather
and fondly described walking to school along the elegant tree-lined streets of her
neighborhood. Her great-uncle owned Brown's Furniture & Jewelry, where Janet had her first
job wrapping gifts which, she said, was "just plain fun, for which he paid me way too much."
Janet studied classical piano starting in childhood and played throughout her life. Her favorite
composer was Chopin, although she also loved opera, show tunes, rock and roll (she
permanently injured her knee chasing Elvis' train down the tracks), and pop. Janet had a
beautiful singing voice and will forever be remembered for her rendition of "Alfie."
Graduating from Greeneville High School as Valedictorian, Janet attended Maryville College on
a music scholarship and later earned her accounting degree from the University of Tennessee.
She was a trailblazer for women in the workplace - first as one of few female CPAs at a large
firm and then starting her own business in Knoxville.
While Janet was proud of her career and academic accomplishments, she said, "Being a Mom
is the most worthwhile thing I've ever done." Her belief was "always love your children
unconditionally and always let them know it." Her children Jeremy Leming and Lea Ann Leming
adored her in return.
At age 49, Janet married "the love of her life" Ted Murrian. Retiring early, the two traveled
extensively, laughed daily, and became deeply involved in their church. Ted passed away 12
years into their marriage. Janet wrote of life, "There needs to be a little pain to understand joy,
and I have experienced that too."
In her later years, Janet enjoyed socializing, needlework, gardening, traveling with her
daughter, and working again at her old CPA firm with her son. She always loved fashion and
was effortlessly stylish, often sporting a hat.
Janet was preceded in death by her parents, best friend Fran Green, and beloved Boston
Terriers Baxter and Blaze. Survivors include her children, brother and sister-in-law James and
Pat Slone, nephews and nieces, and her terrier Charlie, who will stay in the family.
Donations can be made to Lotts Creek Community School in Cordia, KY, founded by Janet's
great-aunt Alice Slone (LottsCreek.org), or any animal rescue of choice.
A Celebration of Life will be held at 2pm on November 16, 2019, at First United Methodist
Church of Alcoa, TN. Arrangements entrusted to Dotson Funeral Home, Wildwood. (865-984-5959) Online Book of Memories - www.dotsonfuneralhome.com
Service Details.
Service
When: Saturday, November 16th, 2019 2:00pm
Location: First United Methodist Church of Alcoa
Address: 617 Gilbert Street ALCOA, TN 37701
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