Janie R. Atkerson, age 71, of Newport passed away Tuesday. She was born in Dotson, Texas to Jewel and Beatrice E. (Britton) Atkerson.

Janie married Thomas J. Ballweber in Dotson, Texas. They came to Sweet Home in the late 1950s. She lived in Sweet Home and Stayton while working with NORPAC Foods for 17-1/2 years. She lived in Newport for the last ten years.

Janie liked puzzel books, lottery scratch-offs, drinking pepsi, and going for rides. She loved her family and spending time together.

Janie is survived by children, Terry Ballweber of Albany and Rodney Ballweber of Newport; brother, Marvin Atkerson of Texas; sisters, Verline Smith of Texas, Ovvie Nell Robinson of California, and Ima Akins of Texas; grandchildren, Thomas W. Ballweber and Steven Ballweber; great grandchild, Kegen Lee Jefferson-Ballweber; and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

She was preceded in death by brother, R.H. Atkerson, and her mom and dad.

A memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Saturday, November 22, at Sweet Home Funeral Chapel.

Sweet Home Funeral Chapel is handling services.