On the morning of January 12, 2026, beloved wife, cherished mother, skilled nurse and devoted community servant, Janet Jean Heravi passed away surrounded by her family at Homestead Hills in Winston-Salem, North Carolina.
Jan was born in Lincoln Township, Michigan on June 14, 1942. She graduated from the School of Nursing at Wayne State University in 1963 and embarked on a career in nursing. While working at Grace Hospital in Detroit, Michigan, she met Dr. Cyrus Heravi, the love of her life. They married on November 20, 1963, and were blessed with three children, a daughter Mitra, and two sons, Javid and Armin.
In 1971, the family settled in Sparta, NC. Jan and Cy made cherished connections with their neighbors and forged lasting friendships. Friends knew when they came to Jan’s house, they could expect two things: first, a kind heart that could deliver good conversation, condolences, or counsel, and second, some of the best food you could imagine.
Jan’s dedication to serving her community extended beyond family, friends, and nursing. She founded a Girl Scout Troop at the Sparta United Methodist Church in 1974. She served on the Alleghany County Board of Education for 12 years. During her tenure and after, Jan was a fierce advocate for the education of the children of Alleghany County. Her belief in their potential inspired her to support an environment where those children could accomplish anything they set their mind to.
Jan is preceded in death by her parents, Lewis McDonald and Dorothy Recker McDonald, and her brother, Ray. She leaves behind her spouse, Cy, and extended families. Their daughter, Mitra (Roger) Higgins of Pfafftown, North Carolina, a grandson Jacob (Lauren) Higgins and great grandson Camden of Winston Salem, North Carolina and granddaughter, Avery (Ethan) Wells of Winston Salem, North Carolina. A son, Javid (Catherine) Heravi of Fairfax, Virginia, and grandchildren, Evan Heravi and Meredith Heravi. A son, Armin (Kelly) Heravi of Millersville, Maryland, and grandchildren, Jackson Heravi and Grace Heravi. Jan is also survived by a dear sister, June Stalter, and many nieces and nephews.
At Jan’s request, the family has not planned a memorial service to honor Jan’s life. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests friends donate to the Alleghany Educational Fund at PO Box 33,114 S. Main St. Sparta, NC 28675. Your contributions will help continue her legacy of empowering and nurturing the next generation.
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