Obituary of Janet K. Opdyke

Janet "Jan" Opdyke, 75, a lifelong resident of Washington, NJ passed away peacefully at home on May 19, 2020 with loved ones by her side. Jan was born on October 8, 1944 in Phillipsburg, NJ to the late Albert and Helen Kayal. She was a graduate of Averitt University where she obtained her marketing degree, and then when on to further her education at Rider University, where she received her teaching degree. Jan taught at the Woodglen School in Lebanon Township, NJ for 25 years before retiring in 2001. She was a senior member of the Language Arts Department. People in the area will remember the many original plays that Jan wrote and directed for her students to perform. She was a member of the NJEA and the NEA teachers' associations. Jan was an avid NY Giants and NY Mets fan, and a supporter of the Villanova basketball program. She thoroughly enjoyed spending time with her niece's triplets. Her many trips to Disney World, shared with husband, Bob and close relatives, were a source of great pleasure. Jan was a longtime member of St. Joseph's Roman Catholic Church in Washington, NJ. Jan will always be remembered for her kindness and generosity and be missed by all who knew her. Jan is survived by her loving husband of 35 years, Bob Opdyke. She also leaves behind a sister; Nancy Nelson, a brother; William Kayal, his wife, Marilyn, a sister-in-law; Linda Milson and her husband, Jim. Jan is also survived by many nieces, nephews, grandnieces, and grandnephews. In Lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Jan's name to St. Joseph's Roman Catholic Church, 200 Carlton Ave., Washington, NJ 07882. Due to public gathering restrictions, services will be private. For those who knew and loved Jan, you are encouraged to share a message, memory or story with the family on the Tribute Wall.