Janet Marie Bassett, 81, of Murphy passed away Wednesday, January 9, 2019 at her residence. She was a native of Summit County, Ohio, where she had worked for the Summit County Sheriff’s Department for 21 years as a deputy sheriff. She retired to Murphy in 1993, where she continued to work as a caregiver. Janet loved animals and rescued many animals throughout her life.

She was the daughter of the late Wanda Jennifer Kelley. She was also preceded in death by a son, Rick Bassett; and a sister, Patricia Taylor.

Surviving are her husband of 59 years, Robert Bassett; three daughters, Terry Merrix and significant other, Jim Marich of Murphy, Tammy Bassett of Avon Lake, Ohio, and Vonie Dockery and husband, Wayne of Murphy; six grandchildren, Joey, Angela, Jimmy, Sean, Lauren, and Crissy; four great grandchildren, Nicholas, Christopher, Justin, and Adilynn; and many extended family members.

No services are planned at this time.

The family requests memorials be made in memory of Janet Marie Bassett to the Valley River Humane Society, PO Box 658, Murphy, NC 28906.

Ivie Funeral Home, Murphy in charge of arrangements.