Janet Diane Stafford Appleby

Janet Diane “Stafford” Appleby, born August 3, 1948, in Springfield, Missouri, passed away peacefully after a long and courageous battle with Alzheimer’s disease. Her strength and grace never wavered, even during the hardest of days.

Janet was the cherished daughter of Uel and Yvonne Stafford, whom she lovingly called, “Mother and Daddy.” She graduated from Ozark High School in 1966 and went on to earn a degree in music and home economics from Missouri State University. A gifted and classically trained singer, Janet toured Europe and won numerous vocal competitions, sharing her incredible voice and deep passion for music all over the world. She mastered multiple instruments and found great joy in teaching music and singing in the church choir.

Beyond her massive talent, Janet was deeply devoted to her family. She was a loving mother, a proud Nana, a loyal friend, and truly the heart of every circle she touched and created. Her warmth, generosity, and steadfast presence were the glue that held her family, her friendships and community together.

She is survived by her daughter, Amy D. Appleby; and granddaughter, Parker R. Appleby-Thompson; son, Adam D. Appleby; four grandchildren, Sam, Jack, Henry, and Vivienne. She also leaves behind a great-granddaughter, her “baby” brother Jimmy Stafford, and many beloved cousins.

Janet was preceded in death by her parents.

A true force of nature, Janet’s radiant spirit and resplendent beauty served as a light that will never fade. She leaves behind a legacy of love, faith, courage, hope, charity, and amazing resilience.

Friends and family are invited to attend Janet's funeral at 1:00 p.m. on Wednesday, July 23, 2025 at Adams Funeral Home, Ozark, with Mike Johns officiating. 

Friends and family are also invited to attend visitation immediately before the funeral from 12:00 p.m. noon until 1:00 p.m. Burial for family only will follow in Selmore Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Janet's memory may be made to East Sunshine Church of Christ in Springfield https://eastsunshine.org/

...or the Greater Missouri Chapter of Alzheimer's Association. https://www.alz.org/greatermissouri?form=FUNKRYHMXPB