Janet Magdalene Lyte

Janet Magdalene Lyte née Jenkins was born on July 16, 1943, to the late Charles Jenkins Sr. and Sarah Jenkins in Cincinnati, Ohio. She was the seventh of their eleven beautiful children. Her name meant, “God’s gracious gift,” and “God is gracious.” Janet spent her life being kind and gracious to those around her. She fostered, nurtured, and deeply valued every relationship in her life.

The importance of education was instilled in her at an early age. Janet was an avid reader and lover of literature and poetry. One of her favorite poets was Henry Wadsworth Longfellow. An honor student, at Hughes High School, Janet was awarded a four-year scholarship to the University of Cincinnati. There she earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Education followed by a dedicated career teaching for the Cincinnati Public Schools. Janet’s love for education was poured into her students. Her colleagues were some of her closest and dearest friends.

Janet’s spiritual education endured a lifetime. She gave her heart to Jesus at an early age and was baptized at the age of ten at Shiloh Seventh-day Adventist Church. She was immersed in the music of the church and sang in several groups and choirs throughout the years. These included the Choralaires and the Mass Chorale. Her love and appreciation of music joined her devotion to the Deaf Ministry of Shiloh. She interpreted for the deaf members and visitors who attended the Shiloh Church and was an engaging participant of the Deaf Choir. Janet also served the Lord by assisting with the Missionary Volunteer Society and teaching Sabbath School.

It was at Shiloh Seventh-day Adventist Church, that Janet Jenkins met Simeon Lyte. He too, was an educator and follower of Jesus Christ. They developed a kind, caring and loving relationship which led to their nuptials on August 1, 1965. Four lovely children were born to their union. Janet loved her children, and, along with her husband Simeon, always encouraged them to walk with God. She and Simeon filled their home with music, love, graciousness, and life-long learning.

Janet and Simeon taught their children to respect knowledge and values throughout their travels through life. Janet was also delighted by her grandchildren and showered them with tenderness and her caring soul.

Janet departed this life on February 6, 2024, but her light and love will remain. Preceding Janet in death is her husband, Simeon Lyte Sr., and her siblings, Charles Jenkins, Jr. (Beatrice deceased), Loretta Lee (Rudolph Lee deceased), Sarah Johnson (Joe Johnson deceased), Harry Jenkins (Ernestine) and David Jenkins. To mourn her loss, Janet leaves: four children, Claire Lyte-Graham, Simeon Lyte Jr. (Brandy), Lauri Lyte, Jonathan Lyte (Davina), five grandchildren, Jaden and Joshua Graham, Assata Gingles, Alexander and Ava Lyte; siblings: Marlene Jason (Don Jason deceased), Michael Jenkins (Karen), Catherine Burks, Pamela Perkins (Michael), Yvonne Diaz-Vazquez (Domingo), a sister-in law Esther Lyte, and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

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