Jeanette Lucille Vawter

When asked what Jeanette Vawter’s secret to longevity was, she said, “loving what you do.” And love it she did, with all her heart, right until the end. Jeanette Vawter, a cherished music teacher, devoted mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and a guiding light to so many, passed away at the age of 93. For over half a century, Jeanette dedicated her life to teaching music from the warmth of her home, where the sound of piano keys being tapped and stringed instruments being strummed became a daily symphony. Thousands of students, from preschoolers to adults, found more than just music lessons with Mrs. Vawter – they discovered a mentor, a friend, and a source of boundless encouragement and joy.

Jeanette’s love affair with music began in her childhood, with a Lap steel guitar in hand. At 16, and over the years, she mastered a beautiful soprano voice and excelled at playing several other instruments, including the piano, dulcimer, and ukulele. If you ask what her favorite instrument was, it would be that lap steel guitar. Her passion for teaching was matched only by her deep love for children. For over 60 years, she served as a children’s choir director in various churches, instilling in countless young voices a love for music that would last a lifetime.

Mrs. Vawter’s home became a haven for learning. Each week, students would arrive for their lessons, filling her living room with melodies, laughter, and love. Beyond the music, Jeanette imparted life lessons, teaching her students patience, perseverance, and the joy of creating something beautiful.

Her kindness and calm energy were legendary among the people who loved her. She had a unique ability to make everyone feel special, whether through her gentle guidance during a lesson or the warmth she radiated during her much-anticipated recitals, where students proudly showcased their progress, often performing duets with Jeanette herself, followed by her lime sherbet-Sprite punch and cookies, a continued sweet tradition.

Outside her music lessons, Jeanette remained remarkably active for several years. She completed a Christian counseling certification and regularly attended church services each weekend, participating in a weekly Bible study, and volunteering at Northview Church for over 20 years. Her service to others extended beyond her teaching, as she supported numerous charities, including the March of Dimes, police associations, and pro-life groups.

Jeanette is survived by her son John (Pam) Vawter, son-in-law Mike Potter, eight grandchildren, and seven great-grandchildren.

She is preceded in death by her parents Jessie and Elenor Leonard, loving husband of over 50 years Dewey Vawter Jr., daughter Linda Potter, and great-grandson Troy.

Mrs. Vawter’s life will be celebrated during a viewing and visitation from 3-7 p.m. Monday, August 19, 2024, with the family receiving guests at 3 p.m., at Flanner Buchanan – Zionsville. A funeral service will begin at 10 a.m. Tuesday, August 20, 2024, at John Wesley Free Methodist Church.

She will be deeply missed by all who knew her, the students she inspired, and the family she cherished.

The family asks in lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the Ovarian Cancer Research Coalition in honor of Jeanette’s late daughter Linda