Last Thursday, Crestwood Funeral Home in Gadsden released a sorrowful obituary announcing Jana’s loss.
In reaction to the tragedy, the Miss Alabama Competition Facebook page and others have paid touching tributes to Jana and offered sympathies to her family.
Miss Alabama Jana Sanderson has died.
Former Miss Alabama Jana Sanderson passed away on Friday, December 16, 2022, at her home in Gadsden. She has 43 years of age.
J&D Farms revealed in a statement that Jana, co-creator of the wedding and reception site, passed away after a battle with cancer.
“She courageously fought cancer with the elegance and dignity only Jana could muster,” the farm stated in an emotional message. “Each week during her infusion, she would prepare care gifts for her nurses. She did so even during the weeks when it was difficult for her to stand or feel her fingers due to the chemotherapy.
“She would select unique gifts for each nurse and spent many hours wrapping each one.” She never once complained about the long-term consequences of her neuropathy, which was induced by this.”
In the touching eulogy, the farm recounted how Jana made couples feel unique on their wedding day and how she connected with individuals in many ways.
What we Know about Jana
Jana won the Miss Alabama pageant in 2000 when she was enrolled at Samford University. The institution conferred on her a degree in communications.
She returned to the same contest a year later, Miss Alabama 2001, and was one of the top 10 contestants.
After graduating from college, Jana achieved professional success as a photographer and marketing specialist.
Jana was also a qualified level 3 CrossFit coach, a superb cook who liked competing in culinary events, and an ardent traveler.
“A highly talented, intelligent, sweet, and kind soul, she brought warmth into every room and charmed everyone she met,” a tribute from the Miss Alabama Competition Facebook page reads.
“We are blessed to have known Jana and to have her represent our state as Miss Alabama. We love and will miss you Jana!”
Funeral
The obituary for Jana indicated that funeral services, followed by a viewing and a memorial service, will be conducted at College Heights Baptist Church.
Jana is survived by her father, stepfather, mother, grandparents, and siblings, among others.
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