Janno Lewis

Janno Lewis, a revered educator and passionate advocate for beekeeping, passed away on Saturday, January 31, 2026, at FirstHealth Hospice and Palliative Care in West End at the age of 81.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, February 10, 2026, from 12:30 PM to 2:00 PM, followed by a memorial service at 2:00 PM at Bumgarner Family Funeral Service, officiated by Pastor Nick Allen. Inurnment will follow at Southside Cemetery.

Born on August 7, 1944, she was a daughter of the late Raymond Perry and Enid Moffitt Perry. Janno dedicated her life to teaching and inspiring others in various educational institutions, including Montgomery County schools and Montgomery Community College. Her commitment to education was matched only by her love for gardening and the craft of beekeeping.

A Master Bee Keeper and active member of the Montgomery County Bee Keepers Association, Janno played a pivotal role in instilling awareness and appreciation for honeybees within the community. Her instrumental work in establishing the bee exhibit at the North Carolina Zoo in Asheboro, known as The Honey Bee Garden, showcased her deep passion for these remarkable creatures and their essential role in our ecosystem.

Janno is survived by her husband, Buck Lewis, of the home; her daughter, Shelli Kelly, and her husband Ron of Candor; and five grandchildren.

Along with her parents, she was preceded by her daughter, Sunny Thompson; and her brother, Lowell Perry.

Memorials may be made to the NC Zoo, 4401 Zoo Parkway, Asheboro, NC 27205 or Montgomery Community College, Attn: MCC Foundation, 1011 Page Street, Troy, NC 27371.

Bumgarner Family Funeral Service is assisting the Lewis family.