Janet Welton Gleeson

It is with a heavy heart that we announce the passing of Janet Welton Gleeson, an extraordinary woman whose life was a testament to love, service, and unwavering kindness. Janet departed from this world peacefully on the 29th of May, 2026, at the age of 80. Born on July 13, 1945, in Whiteville, North Carolina, she was the cherished daughter of Dr. Felix and Frances Welton. Janet was raised in a family deeply committed to service, with her parents' missionary work in China during the 1930s leaving a lasting impression on her. She carried forward their legacy of compassion and service throughout her life. Predeceased by her siblings, Richard and Patricia, Janet leaves behind her devoted husband, James Gleeson, with whom she shared many joyful years in Charlotte. Also mourning her loss are her beloved sister Rebecca and her nieces Katherine, Ann, Elizabeth (Liz), and Virginia (Ginny). Education was a journey that Janet embarked upon with fervor and dedication. After graduating from Tuscaloosa High School in 1963, she pursued her higher education at American University, completing her studies in 1986. She went on to earn her Juris Doctor degree from The University of St. Louis Law School in 1990 and successfully passed the North Carolina State Bar exam on her first attempt in 1992—a testament to her intellect and perseverance. Janet's career in family law began at the esteemed Charlotte firm of James, McElroy, and Diehl. However, her entrepreneurial spirit soon led her to establish her own practice, Janet Welton, Family Law, in 1994. Her dedication to justice and compassion for her clients earned her respect and admiration in the community. Beyond her professional achievements, Janet was deeply committed to her faith and community. As an active member of Covenant Presbyterian Church, she enriched the lives of many through her participation in the Covenant Choir and her tireless efforts in the CROP WALK for Hunger. Her kindness extended to every corner of her life, whether it was through her support of public radio and television or her involvement in the Covenant Women's Circle and local book club. Janet was a woman of many passions. She found immense joy in reading and took delight in the simple act of sending handwritten cards and letters to her loved ones. Her humor and warmth were infectious, with a ready joke always at hand to lift the spirits of those around her. Janet had a remarkable ability to see the good in everyone and was quick to offer help to those in need, whether through a kind word or an act of generosity. A service celebrating Janet's remarkable life will be held at Covenant Presbyterian Church, where she spent so many fulfilling years. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the Crop Hunger Walk, Church World Services (CWS), in honor of Janet's enduring commitment to alleviating hunger and poverty. Janet Welton Gleeson leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness, and service. Though she is no longer with us, her spirit will continue to inspire all those who were fortunate to know her. She will be deeply missed but forever cherished in our hearts.