Janet K. Gilles, 74, of Peoria, Illinois, passed away peacefully at home on December 21, 2025, surrounded by her loving family. Born January 12, 1951, to Walter and Mildred (Johnson) Peters, Janet’s life was rooted in central Illinois, where she became known for her compassionate service, creative spirit, and steadfast devotion to family and community.
Janet graduated from Peoria High School in 1969 and earned her LPN from St. Mary’s in LaSalle, launching a nursing career that spanned decades. She served many years with Dr. Ketay, worked at Proctor Home, and provided in‑home care for friends and neighbors—always bringing empathy, reliability, and a calming presence to those in need.
A creative entrepreneur, Janet owned Magic Moments, where she crafted balloon art, decorations, and gift baskets for weddings and local events. She was an active member of Holy Family Parish, served as a room mother at the grade school, and participated in groups such as the Junior Peorians and the American Porphyria Foundation, enjoying Bunco nights and reunions with her high school circle known as “The Herd.”
Janet married David Gilles on October 3, 1970, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Kickapoo. Their partnership of more than fifty‑five years included shared travels and the companionship of her Maine Coon cat, YoYo. She is survived by her children Heather (Brian) Sutton and Sean (Suzanne) Gilles; grandchildren Eli, Zeke, Colton, and Taylor; brother Ronald E. Peters; sister‑in‑law Arlene Heinz; brothers‑in‑law Larry and Jack Gilles; and many nieces and nephews. Her care for grandparents Carl and Jennie Johnson in later years reflected the deep nurturing at the heart of her life.
The family extends special gratitude to cousin Verita “Vicki” Reliford for compassionate care during Janet’s final weeks. Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10:30 a.m. on December 30, 2025, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Kickapoo, with visitation from 9:00 to 10:30 a.m., officiated by Fr. James Pankiewicz, followed by burial at St. Patrick’s Cemetery.
Janet’s legacy is one of service, creativity, and loving devotion. She touched lives through nursing, entrepreneurship, parish involvement, and the quiet, everyday kindnesses that knit a community together. In this season of remembrance, family and friends honor her memory by carrying forward the compassion and joy she shared.
