Lydia Janette Hamel

Lydia Janette “Jann” Hamel left this world for a far better place on Tuesday, November 6, 2024. Jann was preceded in death by her parents, Joe and June Jones; her older brother, Gail Jones; and her devoted rascal of a dog, Chica. Jann is survived by her two daughters, Sydney and Mallory; three granddaughters, Clara, Hannah and Sadie; a sister, Suzy; and a brother, Cris.

Jann was born in Corpus Christi, Texas, on May 17, 1951, and was raised in Tyler, Texas, but she called the mountains of East Tennessee “home.” She was an avid gardener who could turn an overgrown tangle of woods or barren lawn into a serene, naturalistic garden. Her eye for beauty gazed beyond gardening, making her a talented artist who breathed creativity into original and thought-provoking spaces, objects, and feelings.

Anyone who knew Jann knew her to be a comedienne, with a sharp tongue and impressive eye roll. Her clever remarks, jokes and characterizations could make anyone laugh in any situation. She loved to dance in the middle of the night, to play games of Scrabble that lasted for days, to strike up conversations with strangers, and to grill a mean steak like any good Texan should. She enjoyed spending time with her friends at Everlan, and never missed a Wine Down Wednesday. Above all, she loved to spend precious time with her granddaughters, who delighted her beyond description. 

Jann was a devoted mother who taught her girls to be tough; to be funny; to always make their beds in the morning; to keep their heads up even when they seemed too heavy; to write thank-you cards; to correct each and every grammar injustice seen or heard; and most of all—to stick together, no matter what.

When Jann was born, she broke the mold, and there will never be a cast quite like hers.

To celebrate Jann’s memory, her family asks that you please take a walk outside in a lovely place and pause for a moment to appreciate the breeze and listen to the hum of life around you. And maybe slip a cuss word or two in there. Although, Jann would adamantly tell you not to make a fuss about her, if it would bring you comfort to make a gesture in her memory, you can visit the Appalachian Highlands Humane Society at www.ahhumanesociety.org  to make a donation or learn how to volunteer. 

Sympathies and condolences may be shared with the family via www.morrisbaker.com.

Morris-Baker Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 2001 E. Oakland Avenue Johnson City, Tennessee 37601, is honored to serve the family of Lydia “Jann” Hamel. 423-282-1521.