Janie Alma Thelen

Janie Thelen of San Antonio, TX, was born in Lawton, OK, on July 5, 1953, to Joyce and John Zumbrum. After losing her father at the age of seven, she moved with her family to the Houston area, where she later met the love of her life, Richard Thelen. Together, they built a life filled with devotion, laughter, and a deep appreciation for family—one that spanned 50 beautiful years of marriage.

Janie lived with warmth, grace, and an appreciation for life’s simple pleasures.

As a dedicated real estate agent, she had a gift for helping people find not just houses, but homes—places filled with love, comfort, and lasting memories. It was the same care and commitment she poured into the home she built with Rick, creating a space where their daughter, Sarah, always felt safe, supported, and deeply loved.

This love blossomed further when she became “JJ” to Sarah and Trent Moran’s daughters, Juliet and Hannah. She treasured every moment with her two granddaughters, celebrating their milestones, sharing in their laughter, and surrounding them with endless adoration. She cherished time spent with friends and family, whether through lively game nights, nature walks, exploring new destinations, or quiet mornings on Lake McQueeney, sipping coffee as the sunrise reflected off the water.

For four years, Janie confronted cancer with quiet strength and unwavering resilience. Choosing to navigate her journey privately, she refused to let it overshadow the vibrant life she adored. She continued to enjoy the activities that brought her happiness—gardening, cooking, traveling, and even her weekly Pilates with friends—embracing each day with gratitude and clarity.

Janie passed peacefully, cradled by the hands of Rick and Sarah, as the melodious morning birdsong floated through open windows from her treasured garden—a sanctuary she lovingly tended, where birds and wildlife flourished. She left this world as she lived—enveloped in love and surrounded by beauty.

She also leaves behind her loving mother, Joyce Heyne, and stepfather, Wilbur Heyne; her dear siblings, Laura Harvey, Warren Heyne, and Jean Rogers. In addition, she is survived by her beloved brothers/sisters-in-law, as well as many cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends who will forever hold her memory close to their hearts.

A celebration of her life will unfold in the spring, with details to be shared.

Until then, honor her by baking a loaf of sourdough, filling up your birdbaths and feeders, taking that trip, enjoying every moment with your loved ones, and soaking in the beauty of this world.