Janet Whitaker Stevenson

Janet May Whitaker Stevenson

May 30, 1932 — May 18, 2026

Janet May Forsgren Whitaker Stevenson passed away peacefully in Bonners Ferry, she was born in Brigham City, Utah to Lloyd Oliver Forsgren and Ruby Lily Polson Forsgren.

Janet was the youngest of four children and grew up alongside her older sisters, Irene and Arlene, and her brother Harvey. She often spoke warmly of her childhood in Brigham City and the happy memories she made there. Janet attended school in Brigham City and graduated from Box Elder High School in 1951.

On June 15, 1951, Janet married Melvin J. Whitaker. They created a welcoming home where many enjoyed their visits and friendships and where they raised their daughter, Carol Jean. Janet had a special gift with children and loved having nieces, nephews, and neighborhood children gathered around her. During the summer months, the neighborhood children affectionately nicknamed her “The Popsicle Lady,” knowing they would always be welcomed with a smile and a cold treat.

Janet was talented in many ways. She was a skilled seamstress who made clothes for her daughter, and she found great joy in cooking and caring for others. Her homemade cookies and cinnamon rolls were among her favorite gifts to give to family and friends. Janet and Melvin shared many happy years camping, fishing, and hunting together, creating memories outdoors.

Throughout her life, Janet and Melvin traveled to many places near and far, though some of her happiest times were spent in Bonners Ferry near her grandchildren. She loved laughter, games, water fights, singing songs, memorizing poetry, and telling wonderful stories to her grandchildren.

Janet worked at several places over the years, including JCPenney, Thiokol, Hardy Scales, and Hill Air Force Base. No matter where she worked, Janet formed lasting friendships through her kindness, warmth, and genuine interest in others.

After being widowed for 11 years, Janet opened her heart to love once again. She married Dee Stevenson on March 24, 2018. Together they built a sweet companionship filled with faith, travel, scripture study, temple service, and visits with loved ones. As Janet’s eyesight became more of a challenge, Dee cared for her with patience and devotion. He prepared her favorite meal—tomato soup and bacon made with tomatoes from his own garden—and remained a steady source of comfort and care.

Janet was happiest when surrounded by family and friends sharing time together. She will be remembered for her gift of loving others.

Janet is survived by her husband, Dee Stevenson; her daughter, Carol Jean Hubbard (Craig); grandchildren Ailey Hubbard of Gilbert, Arizona; Jon Hubbard (Celeste) of Mesa, Arizona, and their children Caleb, Eli, Anya, and Seth; Brigham Hubbard (Tanya) of Genesee, Idaho, and their children Delia Walters (Garrett), Kalitri, and Ainsley; Stacey Searle (Eli) of Kimberly, Idaho, and their children Joslyn, Maya, McKay, Jalna, Ronan, Cherie, Trixie, and Jago; Ammon Hubbard (Brandy) of Bonners Ferry, Idaho, and their children Owen, Brooklyn, and Jace; and Jacob Hubbard (Jodi) of Bonners Ferry, Idaho, and their children Hudson and Beckett. She is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews.

Janet will be laid to rest in Brigham City. A viewing will be held Tuesday, May 26, from 10:00 to 10:40 a.m. at Gillies Funeral Chapel (634 E 200 S Brigham City, UT 84302). A graveside service will follow at 11:00 a.m. at the Brigham City Cemetery (300 E. 300 S).

A memorial service will be held Saturday, June 6, at 11 a.m. at Gillies Funeral Chapel. A light luncheon will follow at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints located at 506 S 200 E, and all are invited to attend. An RSVP for the luncheon by June 1 would be appreciated (Please call or text Carol Jean 208-255-6980).