Janet Norene Harrington

Janet Norene Harrington, 79, of Gray Court, South Carolina, went to be with her Lord and Savior on April 30, 2026, surrounded by her loving husband and children.

Janet was born on April 23, 1947, in Canton, Ohio, to Willis and Mary Edgell. She was the second of six children and spent her early years in Ohio before attending Tennessee Temple University, where she studied religion and missions.

Janet devoted her life to being a loving wife, mother, and partner in ministry alongside her husband. She was a dedicated homemaker and, as she would often humorously note, a “part-time goat herder.” Her life was centered on faith, family, and service to others.

On November 5, 1966, Janet married the love of her life, Robert Alexander Harrington III, of Rossville, Georgia. Together, they shared nearly six decades of marriage and raised five children: Laura, Robert Alexander IV, Marcus, Brian, and Susan. Their marriage was a testament of enduring love, faith, and commitment.

Janet had a deep love for the outdoors and found joy in gardening, cooking, and caring for her family. She especially loved singing praises to the Lord. Whether at church on Sunday or at home with her trusted cassette player playing gospel music, Janet’s voice could often be heard joyfully lifting songs of worship. Her unwavering faith in Christ defined her life. She was a devoted prayer warrior who faithfully prayed for others, especially her family.

Janet was known for her candid spirit, never hesitating to speak her mind, whether asked or not, but always following it with a reminder of her love. She had a unique ability to connect with others, making people feel comfortable and heard. She used every opportunity to share her faith and the message of salvation, leaving a lasting spiritual impact on all who knew her.

She is survived by her beloved husband, Robert Harrington; her children: Laura and Marvin Akers of Newcastle, Oklahoma; Bobby and Stephanie Harrington of Denison, Texas; Mark and Amy Harrington of Greer, South Carolina; Brian and Lynn Harrington of Fountain Inn, South Carolina; and Susan and Alan Oswald of Concord, North Carolina. She is also survived by her 18 grandchildren and 9 great-grandchildren.

Janet is further survived by her sister and brother-in-law Judy and Roger Higginbotham, her brother James Edgell, her sister Joan Boron, and many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Willis and Mary Edgell; her brother John Edgell; her sister Joyce Bosler; her sister-in-law and brother-in-law Reba and Sammy Hayes; her nephew Douglas Hays; and her niece Chrisgenia Hays.

A celebration of Janet’s life will be held on Friday, May 8, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at Temple Baptist Church in Laurens, South Carolina, with Pastor Bob Johnston officiating. Viewing will be from 1:00 p.m.- 2:00 p.m. on Friday, May 8, 2026. Burial will follow at Westviewl Memorial Park.  Pallbearers will be Marvin Akers, Bobby Harrington, Mark Harrington, Brian Harrington, Alan Oswald, and Ryan Hays.

Flowers, plants, or monetary donations may be delivered to Temple Baptist Church, 21215 US-76, Laurens, SC 29360. Monetary gifts will be given to Temple Baptist Church.

Condolences may be expressed to the family by visiting www.grayfuneralhome.com.

Gray Funeral Home of Laurens is honored to assist the Harrington family with services.