Janet Watford

Ludowici – Ms. Janet Marie Watford, a lifelong and devoted citizen of Ludowici, crossed over into glory on Wednesday, May 27, 2026. Janet was surrounded by her siblings and other beloved family members as she peacefully took her final breaths.

Janet was the oldest daughter of Robert Lee Watford Jr. and Betty Darnell Russell(Carl), who preceded her in death. She was also preceded in death by her siblings, Sandy Lee Watford, Robert Lee Watford III (“Bobby”), Walter Thomas Watford (“Tom”), and Lillia Elizabeth Waters (“Beth”); as well as her special companion, Raymond I. Fulcher.

She is survived by her siblings, William Paul “Billy” Watford (Laura), John Robin Watford (Sherry), Deloris Dianne “DeDi” Bailey (Jack), and Misty Lee Watford Day; her brother-in-law, Derby Waters; her sister-in-law, Ruby Strickland Watford; her stepmother, Sandra G. Watford; and a host of nieces, nephews, extended family members, former students, colleagues, and dear friends who loved and admired her deeply.

Janet was a lifelong educator who devoted her entire professional career to the students and families of Long County. She began her career in 1969 as a high school mathematics teacher before moving into the role of school counselor, where she faithfully served for 10 years. During those years, she also coached girls’ basketball for the Long County Blue Tide, mentoring young women both on and off the court.

Her dedication to education and leadership led her to become the last elected Superintendent of Long County Schools, a position from which she retired in 1997. During her tenure, Janet played an instrumental role in several major building projects throughout the school system, including the construction of the Blakely Thornton Gymnasium, the new lunchroom facilities, and additional classroom wings at Walker Elementary School and Long County High School.

Even after retirement, Janet’s commitment to education and her community never ended. She was employed by Savannah Technical College for 5 years. Janet served as a long-term substitute off and on for 10 years as well. She continued to serve on the Long County Board of Education for 2 terms and served as Chairman of the Board for 5 years during that time.

Janet held a Bachelor’s Degree in Education, a Master’s Degree in Education, and an Educational Specialist Degree in Educational Leadership. She was a lifelong learner and a passionate advocate for education. More importantly, she built life-changing relationships with countless students, coworkers, and families throughout her career. Her influence reached far beyond the classroom, and her wisdom, encouragement, and compassion left a lasting mark on generations of Long County citizens.

In addition to her love for education, Janet shared a deep and unwavering love for her family. Though she was not a mother in the biological sense, she became a motherly figure to her youngest siblings and a grandmotherly presence to their children. There was never a time when Janet was not a constant source of support, love, guidance, and devotion to those she cherished.

Janet was a woman of strong faith, quiet strength, and steadfast character. She was a pillar to her family and community — a source of wisdom, steadiness, grace, and Christlike love to all who knew her. Her legacy will continue to live on through the countless lives she touched with her generosity, leadership, and unconditional love.

Wake/Visitation will be held on Saturday, May 30, beginning at 4 PM at the Blakely Thornton Gym at Long County Primary School.

Funeral services will be held Sunday, May 31, at 2 PM at First Baptist Church in Ludowici.

Burial will follow in Jones Creek Memory Gardens.

Family and friends may sign the online register at www.howardfuneralga.com.

Arrangements are under the direction of Howard Funeral Home of Ludowici.