Janet "Jan"

Ray Wynkoop

Janet "Jan" Ray Wynkoop

Janet "Jan" Ray Wynkoop, 64, of Oil City passed away peacefully, surrounded by her family, on July 9, 2018 at Hamot Medical Center in Erie following an extended illness.

Born March 6, 1954, Jan was the daughter of the late Donald and Phyllis Wynkoop.

She grew up in Oil City and forever cherished memories of spending summers with her family at their cottage on Canadohta Lake.

After graduating from Oil City High School in 1972, Jan chased her passion for folk music to Nashville, where she pursued a career as a singer/songwriter.

An artistic soul and lover of nature, Jan adored camping, making crafts and helping others in need, especially animals. She instilled these qualities in her children, who carry on her legacy in their own artistic pursuits.

Jan is survived by two daughters, a son, and their spouses: Elizabeth "Betsy" "Bella" Wynkoop (Kendra Kuliga) of Washington, DC; Simon Wynkoop (Kasey Grove) of Oil City; and Alexis Spencer (Donald) of Oil City. She is also survived by six grandchildren: Brylee, Lilly, Baylee, Raien, Ayla, and Trixy, and a seventh grandchild expected in August.

Jan's life partner, Donald Bills of Eagle Rock, and her two sisters, Sharon Hermanson of North Carolina and Susie Goss of Oil City, also survive.

Jan was preceded in death by her parents and a sister, Donna McCarthy.

Family and friends are invited to a celebration of life to be held later in the summer. Jan's children will announce the date and location when plans are finalized.

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation in Jan's memory to the Villalobos Rescue Center (http://www.vrcpitbull.com/how-you-can-help/donations/).

Askins Cremation Funeral Services, 8354 Wattsburg Rd. Erie, PA is assisting the family with arrangements.