Janet Lee (White) McDermott

Janet Lee White McDermott, age 60, a native of Georgia and longtime resident of McMinn County, passed away on Friday, January 9, 2026.

She was born to the late L.S. and Linda McCallister White. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her sister, Joan Ballew, and her half-sister, Linda White. Janet was of the Christian faith.

Janet leaves behind a legacy of faith, love, and kindness, and she will forever be remembered as a devoted mother and an extraordinary grandmother whose love knew no bounds.

She is survived by her loving daughter, Brittany Chappell (Virgil) of Atlanta, Georgia; her cherished grandchildren, Lilliana Witt, Makenlee Witt, and Isaiah Chappell; and her significant other of 27 years, Jose Cruz of Athens.

Additional survivors include her brother-in-law, Joe Ballew (Jessica) of Atlanta, Georgia; her nephew, Matthew Ballew; and several other nieces and nephews.

A funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, in the chapel of Ziegler Funeral Home.  Burial will follow in Hampton Cemetery.

The family will receive friends from 12:00 noon until 2:00 p.m. prior to the service on Wednesday.

Pallbearers will be Virgil Chappell, Makenlee Witt, Isaiah Chappell, Jose Cruz, Jerod Geike, and Thomas Witt.

Family and friends are invited to sign the online guest registry at www.zieglerfuneralhome.com.

Ziegler Funeral Home has been entrusted with the care and arrangements for Janet Lee White McDermott.