Janis Brayford

Janis Irene Leisenring Brayford, 89, of East Ridge, passed away Tuesday, April 16, 2013.Born and raised in Wilkes-Barre, Pa., and moved to Chattanooga in 1953, a resident of East Ridge since 1970.Preceded in death by her parents, William and Irene Leisenring; her sister and brother-in-law, Beverly and Carl Lockman, all of Wilkes-Barre, Pa., and her loving husband and cherished "twin" for 54 years, William Y. "Bill" Brayford.Retired as medical secretary, followed as Private Secretary for Dr. George G. Young covering 30 years as well as also having served as receptionist for Brainerd Kiwanis Club.Prior to working with Dr. Young, she was director for the 3rd District of Garden Clubs under the "Hands Program" sponsored by Sears at that time. Active member of Brainerd United Methodist Church since 1953. Member and teacher of the Friendship Class, as well as substitute for other adult classes. Drama director for six years and active life member of Brainerd United Methodist Women.Bill and Janis, as they were known, always said their only claim to fame was that they were both born on May 31, 1923 in the same hospital but never met until 1951. They remained happily married for 54 years. Survived by daughters Linda (Jeff) Buck, of Columbia, Tenn., and Barbara Brayford, of Fort Oglethorpe, Ga.; two nieces, Nancy (Joseph) Kozich and son, Ryan, of Forty-Fort, Pa.; Carol (Marty) Grego and sons, Eric and Kyle, of White Haven, Pa. Also her adopted family of Dr. George G. Young.Funeral services will be held 1 p.m. today, April 19, 2013, at Brainerd United Methodist Church with Rev. Genevieve DeHoog, officiating.The interment will follow in Chattanooga National Cemetery.In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Brainerd United Methodist Church or Alzheimers Association Southeast Tennessee Chapter, 7625 Hamilton Park Drive, Suite 22, Chattanooga, TN 37421.Visit www.heritagefh.com to share words of comfort to the family.Arrangements are by Heritage Funeral Home, 7454 East Brainerd Road.