Janet Wagner Edwards
November 6, 1953 - January 23, 2020
Janet Wagner Cleary was born to Mitch and Jean Cleary on November 6, 1953 in Waco, Texas where her father served in the Air Force. Soon after, the family returned to Eugene, Oregon where Janet was raised with her two younger brothers. After attending grade school and junior high there, the family moved to Lake Oswego where Janet graduated from Lake Oswego High School in 1971. Janet was a 1975 alumna of Oregon State University and member of Delta Gamma sorority.
Janet's grandmother, Thelma Wagner, inspired her career in interior design that spanned 45 years. As a teenager, Janet organized her grandmother's samples and developed a knowledge of fabrics that served her well later in life. Soon after graduation from college, Janet joined Wayne Martin, an interior design showroom in Portland, working with the area's leading interior designers. Seeking to broaden her knowledge and skills, she moved to New York City, studied at Parsons School of Design and worked at a design showroom.
Janet returned to Portland in 1981, joined Sandra Lamer Interiors and became one of the most gifted interior designers in Portland. Most recently as LaNoue Edwards Interiors, she had a devoted following of loyal clients because she was able to accommodate their style with her creative touch.
Janet married her beloved husband, Barry Edwards, on May 4, 1985 at St Mark's Episcopal Parish in NW Portland. Janet helped raise Christopher, her stepson. Together Barry and Janet had two beautiful daughters, Calleson and Cameron.
Janet was unique in many ways. A lifelong athlete and an avid sports fan, Janet was captain of her high school swim team, a member of the Pilettes dance squad, and more recently a Timbers season ticket holder. Playfully competitive, Janet loved games and puzzles of all kinds. Playing cards with her brothers was a favorite pastime. Gifted with both analytical and artistic capabilities, Janet's math skills were a source of pride and her creativity and design aesthetic were extraordinary. Janet's love of fashion was iconic. She was a superb cook and entertainer, making all feel special with her detailed touches
Janet was an incredible spirit who touched many lives. She was insightful and a good listener, making her a special confidante to many. Often, her clients became close friends. Dear to Janet were her book group of 40 years, dinner group of over 35 years, Ascension Episcopal Parish, The Town Club, and Multnomah Athletic Club where she seldom missed a Zumba class.
In August 2019, Janet was diagnosed with glioblastoma, a lethal form of brain cancer. The disease took her way too soon.
Janet was predeceased by her parents. She is survived by her husband, Barry, her daughters Calleson (Alex) and Cameron, her stepson Christopher (Lori), brothers John (Susie) and David (Jennifer), grandchildren Madden and Payton, and nieces and nephews Morgan, Will, Willie, Annie, Jase and Gracie.
A Celebration of Life will be held February 29, 2020 at 2 pm at The Town Club in Portland. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Brain Tumor Association (abta.org), American Cancer Society (cancer.org) or The Portland Art Museum.
Please sign the guest book at www.registerguard.com/legacy

Published in Eugene Register-Guard