In this season of gratitude, peace, and joy, it feels especially fitting to introduce Renaissance Assisted Living of Greene County resident Jan Pelletier—a woman who brings all these gifts to everyday life.

The youngest of three, Jan grew up in Wharton, New Jersey, with two older brothers she loved dearly. To her large extended family, she’s the beloved “Aunt Jan,” and now, the circle has grown to include many grand-nieces and nephews who absolutely adore her.

Jan and her husband, Dave, have built a lifetime of memories together; at the center of their world is their daughter, Michelle, her husband Jeff, and two treasured granddaughters. “Spending time with these girls is the most important thing in life to Jan,” her family says. Whether it’s everyday adventures—grabbing a cup of coffee, going shopping, wandering in the Shenandoah—or bigger journeys like exploring Acadia National Park in Maine (a place very close to Jan’s heart), she savors it all. Nature’s beauty, from the grand views of the Blue Ridge mountains to the tiniest insects, never escapes her notice. It’s a joy and a gratitude Jan’s shared with her daughter and granddaughters, encouraging them to see the world with the same eyes. You’re likely to spot Jan outside on a walk, happily taking in the neighborhood’s sights, or simply appreciating the changing sky.

What truly sets Jan apart—and makes her such a gift to our community—is her deep ability to listen. Her years as a career counselor taught her how to encourage and coach, but it’s her beautiful, open heart that makes anyone she meets feel truly heard. Whether chatting with a fellow resident or checking in with team members, Jan has a knack for inviting people to share their stories—and delighting in them.

Jan’s sense of joy shines most brightly when she’s moving to music or immersed in creativity. She’s always up for a happy little dance or a quick twirl if there’s a great tune playing in the background. She spends many contented hours with her nature coloring books, where her talent as an artist is as clear as her zest for life.

Ask anyone who knows her, and they’ll tell you: Jan Pelletier is a bright light. Her gratitude, warmth, and gentle spirit inspire everyone fortunate enough to cross her path—and we’re grateful for her every single day.