Janet Macdonald

Janet Coles MacDonald , age 83, of Middleton passed away on Tuesday, June 8, 2021, at Brookdale Stonefield in Middleton, WI.

Janet was born on December 31, 1937 in Staten Island, New York to the late Roswell and Pearl Coles Sr.   Janet graduated from Staten Island Academy in 1955 and from Boston University in 1959 with a Bachelor of Arts degree. She later received her Master of Arts degree from Lamar University.  She married William MacDonald in 1959. Janet and William welcomed their daughter, Maryellen in 1960.

Janet taught high school English for four years at Staten Island Academy. Upon moving to Texas, she taught English at Nederland High School, Nederland, Texas, from 1965-1989, including several years as Chair of the English Department.  She was named Teacher of the Year in 1985.

Janet remained active after her retirement and move to Madison.  She was both a learner and an instructor in PLATO Continuing education. She was active in several charitable projects.

Janet is survived by her daughter Maryellen and two grandchildren.  She is further survived by other relatives and friends.

Janet is preceded in death by her husband, parents and brother, Roswell Coles Jr.

There will be a memorial service for Janet at St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church, Madison, Wisconsin, on June 19. Visitation will begin at 10am followed by the service at 11am, Father Andy Jones presiding.