Janette Panganiban Obituary

Surrounded by family and love, Janette Gay Mahinay entered into eternal rest on July 3, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of laughter, kindness, and unwavering resilience. We take comfort in knowing she is at peace, even as we mourn her deeply. She was 55 years old.

Born in Iloilo, Philippines, Janette Gay was a devoted Catholic who lived a life full of boundless compassion, humor, and steadfast faith in God — always striving to walk in the light of Christ.

She is survived by her two lovely daughters: Nikita Tajik and her significant other Gabriel Angelo, and Bernadine and her significant other Joseph Nathaniel Tyler. Her children will always remember her as the one who taught them to chase after their dreams, to be courageous, and to never give up. She was a beloved daughter and sister, survived by her mother Griselda and siblings: Jogi Grace and spouse Rommel Sr., Jose IV, and Jo Anne and spouse Shanti Khor. She was a cherished aunt to her nephew, Rommel Jr. and his significant other Megan, and nieces, Robin Jade and Jessi Rane, who adored her for her wisdom, warmth, and playful spirit.

She loved singing and dancing, always livening up the mood of any celebration. She loved to cook and inspired her daughters to continue family recipes. Outside of family, Janette Gay was passionate about helping others and she always found joy in giving more than receiving.

Janette Gay was her daughters’ first teacher and homeschooled them both before they started primary school. She was passionate about education and nurturing young minds that later on, she wanted to continue her advocacy and decided to establish ESCLAVO. Through her efforts, dedication and the support of her cherished friends, the organization was able to make a meaningful impact on underserved communities around the Philippines, providing them with books and other learning materials.

With her effervescent energy, she effortlessly drew people together. Her circle of friends stretched across decades and countries, with bonds formed over coffee and shared laughter. Janette Gay loved nature, the beach, and life itself. She believed in the power of prayer and the promise of eternal life. She was a fighter and a survivor.

Janette Gay had a way of making people feel seen and loved, whether it was a listening ear, a helping hand, or just a simple message hello. Though she may be gone from our sight, her light lives on in every life she has touched. While she is now in God’s eternal care, her loving spirit will be greatly missed here on Earth.

A Memorial Gathering for her will be held on Friday July 18, 2025, from 3:00 PM until 8:00 PM at Wysocki & Wilk Funeral Home in Warren, Michigan. A Rosary will also be held on Friday July 18, 2025, at 7:00 PM. The Memorial Service for Janette will be held on Saturday July 19, 2025, beginning at 9:30 AM at St. Michael Catholic Church in Sterling Heights, Michigan.

Please share a memory with the family here on Janette's online guestbook.