Janis Sumner Roberson, a beloved matriarch and cherished member of the Chula community, passed away peacefully at home on Monday, August 24, 2026, surrounded by her loving family. A celebration of Janis' life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, August 27, 2026, at the First Baptist Church in Chula, Georgia with the Rev. Jason Loggins and the Rev. Chad Hall officiating. Mrs. Roberson will be laid to rest at Hickory Springs Baptist Church Cemetery. The family will receive friends on Thursday, August 27, 2026, from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. at the First Baptist Church in Chula.
Thom Roberson, Justin Roberson, Jacob Roberson, Blake Jones, Ferrell Chappell, Neal Roberson, Colton Jones and Perry Jones will serve as pallbearers. Honorary pallbearers will be Jerry Parker, Phillip Grimes, Timmy Dominque, Greg Sheppard and members of the Tift County High School Class of 1954.
Born on September 20, 1936, in Tifton, Georgia, Janis was the daughter of Herbert and Louise Hughes Sumner. Her life was one of dedication, love, and unwavering faith, leaving an indelible mark on all who were fortunate to know her.
Janis was a proud graduate of Tift County High School, where she was crowned Homecoming Queen in 1954. Her beauty was rivalled only by her kindness and generosity, qualities that she carried throughout her life. In the early years of her career, Janis worked as an administrative assistant to Mr. Henry Bostick at the Clerk of Court, later becoming the esteemed "Boss Lady" of Wendell Roberson Farms.
On August 28, 1955, Janis married her beloved Thomas Wendell Roberson at Chula Methodist in Chula, Georgia. Together, they shared 45 wonderful years, raising their two sons, Terrell and Sid, and creating a home filled with love and laughter. Her devotion to her family was absolute, and she took immense pride in her roles as a mother, grandmother to seven grandchildren, and great-grandmother to six great-grandchildren.
Janis was an active and devoted member of the First Baptist Church of Chula for over 60 years. Her passion for nurturing young minds was evident as she taught Girls in Action and Sunday School to the church's littlest members. She believed deeply in the importance of instilling a biblically sound foundation in children, ensuring they understood the love of Jesus.
A woman of many talents, Janis was an avid gardener whose home often received the Beauty Spot of the Month from the Garden Council. Her yard, adorned with life-sized Christmas decorations and beautiful birdhouses, was a source of joy for her and the community. She had a love for animals, particularly cats, dogs, butterflies, and birds, and found peace in her beachside retreats where she would hunt for seashells.
Janis was predeceased by her parents, Herbert and Louise Sumner, her brothers Harold and Ferrell Sumner, and several cherished in-laws. She leaves behind her children, Terrell Roberson and Sid (Melanie) Roberson; grandchildren, Justin Roberson, Lacey Roberson Jones (Blake), Jacob Roberson, Thom Roberson (Maci), and Syndee Roberson; great-grandchildren, Colton Jones, Perry Jones, Rylee Roberson, Marleigh Roberson, Harlee Jones, and Maeleigh Roberson; her brothers, Charles Sumner (JoAnn) and Paul Sumner (Amy); her sister, Brenda Chappell; and numerous nieces and nephews.
The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Abide Home Health and Georgia Hospice for the compassionate care provided to Janis in her final days. Forever grateful, the family cherishes the love and support of all who have reached out during this difficult time.
Janis' legacy is one of kindness, faith, and love. Her spirit will continue to guide and inspire those who knew her, and her memory will be forever cherished.
Her favorite quote was “are you bright-eyed and bushy-tailed”?
Flowers will be accepted or memorial gifts may be made to the Easter Seals Day Program, 3020 Tift Avenue North, Tifton, GA 31794.