Janet Mae Rivera

Janet Mae Rivera, 51, of Columbus, Ohio, passed away after a courageous 2½-year battle with cancer. Born and raised in Amherst, Ohio, Janet recently moved to Columbus, where she made her home and continued to create special memories with those around her.Janet was a warm, kind, generous, and endlessly caring person. She truly was a ray of sunshine. To know Janet was to be loved by Janet. She had a rare ability to make people feel cared for and important, and she never hesitated to help someone in need. Her generosity was woven into everything she did. She gave freely of her time, energy, and heart.Janet built an incredible career in Human Resources, a profession that came naturally to her because of the compassion and empathy she carried into every interaction. She was a caring and thoughtful leader who genuinely wanted to see others succeed. Whether she was helping a colleague, supporting a friend, or caring for her family, Janet had a way of making people feel that they mattered.

Of all the roles she held in her life, Janet cherished being a wife, mother, and grandmother most of all. She leaves behind her beloved husband, Luis Rivera; her children, Ashley Rosso and Karina Dorman and her husband, Joseph Dorman; and her grandchildren, Cambree, Addie, Brynlee, and Margo. She also leaves behind her stepchildren, Yarely Rivera Burgos and her wife, Maria Calderon, Saheliana Rivera Burgos, and Yarell Rivera Burgos; her sister, Jennifer Jacovetti and her husband, John Jacovetti; and her sister, Patti Richard and her husband, Pete Richard; as well as many nieces and great-nephews who were fortunate to know her love.

Janet found so much joy in the simple things. She loved taking on DIY projects, spending time with her grandpunkins, loyally watching the Cleveland Browns, even when they gave her plenty of reasons not to, and spoiling her two beloved dogs, Rachel and Phoebe. She had a gift for making ordinary moments feel special simply by being there.Janet’s greatest legacy will not be found in a title, accomplishment, or possession, but in the countless people whose lives were made better by knowing her. She loved deeply, gave selflessly, and never made anyone question whether they were cared for. Her kindness left an imprint on everyone fortunate enough to cross her path.Janet is reunited with her beloved parents, Lois and Alfred Lassen. While her family and friends will feel her absence deeply, they will carry her love, her warmth, her laughter, and her generosity with them. Her light will continue through the people she loved and the many lives she touched.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to Buckeye Bulldog Rescue. https://www.buckeyebulldogrescue.org

To know Janet was to be loved by her, and that love will remain.