Janet Birks
Janet Birks came into this world on January 7, 1939, as Janet Kay McClelland- the firstborn child of Orville and Martha McClelland of Lehigh, Iowa. Janet, along with her siblings Jim, Joan, and Jerry, grew up in the small, close-knit town of Lehigh, fostering bonds that would last a lifetime.
Janet excelled academically throughout her school years, embodying a strong dedication to learning and an unwavering commitment to education. As a young school teacher, Janet inspired the next generation with her
dedication to fostering a supportive and engaging classroom environment.
On August 4th, 1959, Janet was joined in marriage with John (better known as Jack) Perkins.The two would go on to reside in Alta, Iowa, and operate family-run grocery stores in the towns of Alta and Aurelia, Iowa. Janet was the beautiful mother and Jack the father of three sons: Jeff, Jerry, and James (Jim).
Following Jack’s tragic death in 1986, Janet would continue on her path as a successful businesswoman, including ownership of her own real estate company, Birks Real Estate INC, in Topeka, Kansas.
In 1993, Janet married a soulmate in Benny Birks of Topeka, Kansas, and they spent 28 wonderful years together, creating cherished memories and embracing life to the fullest. Janet adored the winter months in Arizona, traveling across the country, enjoying visits to the casino, reconnecting with old friends, and sharing delightful moments with her and Benny’s beloved dogs Tina and Jesse.
Janet also felt a strong calling to assist the downtrodden and marginalized of society. Her faith inspired her to seek to help create a world that works for all. Many from diverse backgrounds and cultures would come to know her as a friend.
Janet is preceded in death by: Mother and father Martha and Orville McClelland; husbands John (Jack) and Benny; brother Jim McClelland; sister-in-law Joyce McClelland; and many other friends and family members.
Janet is survived by: Son Jeff Perkins and son-in-law Michael Duncan; son Jerry Perkins and daughter-in-law Shairey Perkins; son James (Jim) Perkins and daughter-in-law Angie Perkins; sisterJoan Pingel and brother-in-law James Pingel; brother Jerry McClelland and sister-in-law Chris McClelland; grandchildren: Jessica (Ryan) Parnell, Amanda (Chaz) Harley, Kayla (Jeremy) Elmore, John (Taylor) Perkins, Josh (Julia) Perkins, and Ray Perkins; great-grandchildren: Aaliyah Perkins-Parnell; Addie, Miana, and Lincoln Harley; Jax and Ellie Elmore; Maddie Perkins; Malik and Leilani Perkins; and her beloved dog Jesse.
Burial service will be held Thursday, July 10th, 2025 at 9:00 AM at Missouri Veterans Cemetery in Springfield, MO. A family directed celebration of Janet’s life will be held on Friday, July 11th, 2025 at 11:00 AM at Battlefield United Methodist Church on 5745 Daniel Street, Battlefield, MO. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Best Friends Animal Society or Humane World for Animals.