Janet Lee (Maksym) Debiak, 60, of Clifton, passed away on November 21, 2024. Born in Passaic, she lived in Clifton and Wallington.

A parishioner of St. John Kanty RC Church, Clifton, Janet served as the Director of the Religious Education Program, taught with the Vacation Bible School Program, was a member of the SJK Home and School Association, volunteered for many years at the annual SJK Parish Picnic, sang in the choir, was a member of the Pre-Cana Team, and loved to bake.

Before retiring in 2016, Janet was a Special Education Teacher for the Wallington Board of Education at the Wallington JR/SR High School for 30 years.

She would always greet you with a big hug and a smile that showed she was genuinely glad to see you. Janet was funny, caring, and generous. Her laughter was uplifting and contagious. She loved teaching the Junior and Senior high school students, helping them achieve their goals and encouraging their ambitions. Janet constantly gave her time and talents to motivate, nurture, and inspire others to live their dreams. She was the hope and light in all the lives she touched.

Beloved wife of the late Matthew Debiak, Jr. who passed away in 2023, and the late Dr. John Siery who passed away in 2007. Devoted mother of Kimberly Siery. Cherished daughter of the late Phyllis and Edward Maksym, Sr. Dear sister of Edward Maksym, Jr. and his wife Rosemary. Dear sister-in-law of Nancy Peskosky and her late husband Paul, and Robert and Cindy Debiak, adored aunt of numerous nieces and nephews. Also survived by many cousins and friends.

Visiting Wednesday, December 4, 2024, 4-8 PM at the Shook Funeral Home, 639 Van Houten Ave., Clifton. Funeral Thursday, December 5, 2024, 8:45 AM at the funeral home and 10 AM at St. John Kanty RC Church, Clifton. Interment, East Ridgelawn Cemetery, Clifton.