Janet S. Tapia

Janet S. Tapia, 80, of Garner passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, May 16, 2026 at her home.

Private family graveside services will be held this summer in Audubon, Iowa.

Janet Sue Tapia, the daughter of James and Ethel (Simonsen) Cavanaugh, was born on November 21, 1945, in Audubon. She graduated from Audubon High School in 1964. On January 30, 1971, she married Jose Delores Tapia, and three children were born to this union. Janet was employed as a secretary at Coon Rapids Bayard Community School District for 22 years until her retirement. After retiring, she moved to Garner to be closer to her family. Janet enjoyed reading, collecting books and crocheting, especially making many family members afghans for special occasions. She loved a hot cup of tea and trying different varieties in her mug collection. She also loved talking to her sister Dee every day around 5 p.m. Her most recent love was playing with her new great granddaughter, Amelia.

Janet is survived by her children, Michelle (Gary) Rayhons of Garner and Michael Tapia of Glidden; grandchildren, Lucas (Nicole) Rayhons and their daughter, Amelia, Makenna Rayhons and Tiffani Moore.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Jose; daughter, Letitia (Tisha) Craig; a sister, Patricia (Jim) Long; a brother, James Cavanuagh; and brother-in-law, Richard Sandage.