Janet Tipton

Janet “Jan” Tipton, aka “Jan the Hugger”

resident of Ukiah, California

Janet Tipton passed away peacefully on December 13, 2025, nine days shy of her 90th birthday. She was surrounded by loved ones and leaves behind a legacy of generosity, devotion, and joy that touched countless lives.

Jan was born on December 22, 1935, in Gary, Indiana, to Henry and Anna Strachan. Her family’s journey brought them from the Midwest to Ontario, California, where Jan attended Chaffey High School and graduated in 1953. The family later moved to Northern California, ultimately settling in Ukiah in 1972. It was here that Jan found her community and what she lovingly called home for more than five decades.

Jan loved her family deeply, and they were the center of her world, bringing her great happiness. She also found joy in traveling, playing games (and winning), reading every book she could, enjoying excellent food, and expressing her vibrant spirit by wearing her favorite bold purple blouses.

Jan worked for many years at the Unemployment Office and later served as a Social Security hearing monitor. She also spent many years sharing wellness through Shaklee. More than anything, she was deeply passionate about volunteering and giving back. For many years, Jan served as the toy chairman of the Ukiah Christmas Effort, selflessly giving up celebrating her own birthday at home so she could help collect, sort, and pack Christmas boxes for families in need. Her kindness and dedication became a quiet but powerful force in the Ukiah community.

The love of her life was her husband, Tom Tipton—her dance partner, her companion, and her greatest love. Their bond was a constant source of joy and inspiration to those around them.

Jan is survived by her three children: Lori Ann Bowers Poma, Kimberly Schieck, and Keith Bowers; along with their loving spouses; seven grandchildren; fourteen great-grandchildren; and her brother, Scott Strachan.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Tom Tipton; her brother, Randy; and her sister, Liz.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to your favorite charity in Jan’s memory, so that the spirit of generosity that defined her life may continue.

Jan’s life was measured not in years, but in hugs given, hands held, and lives quietly lifted. Her laughter, compassion, and vibrant spirit will echo through generations, living on in family traditions, shared stories, and the love she planted everywhere she went.