Janet Kay Torson, 89, of Decatur, IN, passed away on Wednesday, March 25, 2026, at Adams Woodcrest. She was born in Decatur, IN, on July 26, 1936, the daughter of the late Sylvester L. “Steve” and Justine M. (Zerkel) Everhart.
She graduated from Decatur High School in 1954, received a Teaching Degree from Earlham College, a Master Degree from Purdue University and additional education from Indiana University. She was employed at North Adams Community Schools and retired after 37 years of teaching Kindergarten.
Janet was a member of Grace First Community Church (First United Methodist Church), where she served on many boards in the church. She was involved in North Adams Arts Council, PSI IOTA XI Sorority, Order of the Eastern Star, Decatur Woman’s Club, and Merry Mixers Home Economics. She was also Den Leader for her son’s Boy Scout Troop.
She was also a Daughter of the American Revolution Isaac Van Wert Chapter. She served on the Safety Park Board and was a member of the ABC Book Club Adams Public Library and the Decatur Optimist Club. She was a life member of Indiana State Teachers Association and Adams County Retired Teachers Association.
Janet was a recipient of the Key to the City of Decatur and was the 2018 Grand Marshal of the Callithumpian Parade. She was also involved in the Theater at Bellmont, where she would help with summer productions. Janet was involved in genealogy and beekeeping. She loved being involved with her grandchildren and their sporting activities.
She is survived by her sons, Steven E. Torson and Tom H. (Lori) Torson both of Decatur, IN; a sister, Janelle (Larry) Rensberger of Syracuse, IN; 3 grandchildren, Colyn (Emily) Torson, Caleb (Adrianna) Torson, and Conner Torson; 4 great grandchildren, Liam, Caden, Wesley, and Eden Torson.
She was preceded in death by her daughter, Tamara Leigh “Tammy” Torson on April 13, 2025.
Visitation will be from 3:00 – 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, April 2, 2026, at Haggard-Hirschy & Zelt Funeral Home.
A Funeral Service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Good Friday, April 3, 2026, at Grace First Community Church, with visitation prior to the service from 10:00 – 11:00 a.m. Pastor Steve Austin and Pastor Mark Zerkel will be officiating. Burial will follow in Decatur Cemetery.
Memorials may be made to the Safety Park.
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