Janis C. Aldredge, 70, of Carrollton Missouri, passed away on Tuesday, July 7, 2026, after a hard fought battle with pancreatic cancer. A two-time breast cancer survivor, Janis faced her third cancer diagnosis with the same grit, courage, and determination that had carried her through life.
Janis was born the second child to Arthur and Ruth (Wheeler) Schlueter, on March 1, 1956 in Carrollton MO. She grew up in Wakenda where she developed her independent spirit, quick wit, and compassionate heart. Janis graduated from Carrollton High School in 1974 and carried those lessons and friendships throughout her life.
On June 6, 1975, Janis married Steven W. Aldredge, in Carrollton MO. Their marriage was blessed with two daughters: Stephanie Angel and Christina Rae who were her pride and joy. As her family grew to include two grandsons, Jerret and Landon, nothing made her happier than spending time with those she loved most.
Throughout her life, Janis was known for her strong work ethic and willingness to take on any challenge. She worked at Banquet, then S&K Industries, bringing dedication, kindness, and humor to every workplace. She formed lifelong friendships and left a lasting impression wherever she went. Later in life, Janis pursued a calling that perfectly reflected her caring nature by becoming a paramedic. She proudly served her community for 27 years. Admired for her calm presence under pressure, her professionalism, and her unwavering compassion. Being a paramedic and instructor was more than a career-it was a reflection of who she was: someone who instinctively put others before herself.
Anyone who knew Janis knew she had a spark that could not be dimmed. She was spirited, and never afraid to speak her mind. Her sense of humor, contagious laugh, and ability to find light even in difficult times drew people to her. She loved deeply, gave generously, and had a way of making everyone feel welcome.
Above all else, Janis cherished her family. Whether she was celebrating holidays, cheering on her children and grandchildren, sharing stories around the table, or simply enjoying everyday moments together, she made each person feel loved. The memories she created with those closest to her will be treasured forever.
She is survived by her children, Angel Colborn, Carrollton, MO, and Chrissy Aldredge, Norborne, MO; grandsons, Jerret McCoy and Landon Colborn; siblings Jim Schlueter, Rhonda Metcalf, and Kathy Spangler; many nieces and nephews; along with many dear friends and former coworkers.
She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Steve Aldredge on March 22, 2021, sister Joyce Davis, and niece Amy (Nikki) Albert.
A Celebration of Life will be held on July 25, 2026, from 1-3 pm at La Bella Hall, 5 S Main, Carrollton. Graveside services will take place immediately afterwards at Oak Hill Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the family to establish in her name a scholarship fund for individuals pursuing a career as an EMT or Paramedic. The family hopes that this scholarship will honor her commitment to helping others and ensure that her memory continues to make a difference for generations.
Though cancer tested her strength more than once, it never defined her. Her legacy is not one of illness, but of resilience, compassion, laughter, and unconditional love. She will be remembered not only for the lives she saved, but for the countless lives she enriched simply by being herself. Arrangements entrusted to Hidden Valley Funeral Home of Carrollton, www.hiddenvalleyfunerals.com
Source: KMZU, The Farm
