Janeé Carol James Drakeford, 67, formerly of Monessen, passed away Monday, May 30, 2022. Born in Charle- roi on June 19, 1954, she was the daughter of the late Robert L. James, Sr. and the late Virginia Peerman James of Monessen. Janeé graduated from Monessen High School in 1972. She graduated from Slippery Rock University in 1976 with a Bachelor of Arts in English. After a brief stint in the workforce, Janeé married and is survived by, her husband William Drakeford of Wake Forest, N.C. Janeé is also survived by her two sons, Colin William (Caroline) of Cary, N.C., and Casey, at home. She also is survived by a brother, Robert L. James Jr. (DeVorne) of Pittsburgh. In addition, she leaves behind her 95-year-old aunt, Hazel Rone of Monessen, and the extended Rone family; as well as her 92-year-old uncle, Richard James of Donora, and the extended James family. Janeé devoted her life to the care of her children, and worked closely with the autism societies in each place she lived. She was also instrumental in facilitating necessary changes in the educational system to benefit autistic students. Janeé was a lifelong Steelers fan, despite being in a Baltimore Ravens household, and regularly cheered on the Steelers. She will always be remembered for her sweet smile, quick wit and loyalty to her family and friends. Funeral arrangements are pending, and a memorial service is being planned in her hometown of Monessen. An announcement will be made when plans are finalized. We are asking that any donations on Janeé’s behalf be made to your local autism society or the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network.
