Janet Harrell Detch

In loving memory of Janet Harrell Detch, who passed away on April 24, 2024, at her Pawley's Island home, surrounded by her beloved family and her loyal pup Luke.

Janet Harrell Detch was born and raised in Suffolk, VA, where she laid the foundation for a life filled with kindness, love, and adventure.  She took on renovation of a Civil War era farm house that she lived in as a child, played the organ for several churches in Suffolk, ran a catering business and completed a bachelor’s degree, all while being an incredible mother and working full time managing Family Medicine Associates.

Janet's next chapter took her to Woodstock, GA where she developed a love of dogs, airplanes, and old cars at Air Acres.  Janet loved and cared deeply for Steve and Ivan and enjoyed time in WV at Chevron, visiting the beaches of Florida, and making her first trip to Europe.  She continued her career as an executive manager growing offices for occupational health and ophthalmology practices across Atlanta.   In Woodstock, she also found a passion for ballroom dancing, placing second place in a National dance competition, and dog agility training with Luke.

The last chapter of Janet’s life was filled with more love and adventure with Dave, family, and friends.  They enjoyed traveling, time at the Hadley Farm, and being with their kids, grandkids, and many incredible friends.  Janet would not be slowed down by a pesky diagnosis and, with Dave by her side, continued to make new friends and explore the world from France to Alaska.  Most recently they relocated to Pawley’s Island, SC to enjoy life near the beach.

Janet was most proud of her daughter Stacey and grandson Aven.  Her independence and passion for travel was contagious.  She put the travel bug in Stacey, taking her on their first airplane ride to New York City for Stacey’s 15th birthday.  In 2021, Janet loaded up the truck and RV with Dave, Aven, and pups Luke and Katie for a road trip across the southwest. 

Janet’s kind, adventurous, and sometimes stubborn spirit knew no bounds, and she approached each chapter with an open heart, grace, and focus on her family and friends. No matter where she travelled or called home, she always found a sense of belonging and community, as evidenced by the outpouring of love and memories shared in the past weeks.

Janet was predeceased by her father (Bascum Clinton Harrell), mother (Emeline Holland Harrell), sister (Reba Harrell), and husband (Steven Detch) and survived by her partner (David Hadley), daughter (Stacey Christenbury), grandson (Aven Christenbury), and brother (Clint Harrell).

Condolences may be made at www.burroughsfh.com

Burroughs Funeral Home and Cremation Services (843.651.1440) of Murrells Inlet is assisting the family with arrangements.