Family & Heritage
Janette was born on April 25, 1922, in Mark, Illinois, into the large, tight-knit Italian-American family of Biagio Magelli and Mary (Mareta) Magelli. She grew up alongside a vibrant houseful of siblings—five brothers (Angelo, Steve, Joe, Peter, and Paul) and three sisters (Rose, Anne, and Theresa)—all of whom she outlived, eventually becoming the matriarch of her generation.
On February 24, 1945, Janette married the love of her life, Anthony J. “Tony” Audo, in Benld, Illinois. They built their life together in Gillespie, sharing nearly 59 years of marriage until Tony’s passing on December 30, 2003. Together, they raised two sons:
- Anthony
- Albert
Domestic Artistry, Antiques, & Personal Passions
Janette was a woman of immense talent whose home and hobbies reflected her creativity, hard work, and sharp eye for beauty:
- Culinary Talents: Renowned as an exceptional cook and a exceptionally gifted baker, Janette delighted family and neighbors alike with her culinary creations. Her kitchen was the heart of many family gatherings, keeping her heritage alive through food.
- The Antique Collector: Her husband, Tony, built a beautiful, sturdy brick home for their family. Janette took that canvas and transformed it into a masterpiece of interior design. Over decades, she cultivated a deep passion for antiquing, successfully tracking down and restoring priceless, unique pieces that gave their family home distinct character and warmth.
- Master Gardener & Seamstress: Her hands were rarely still. Outside, she spent endless hours creating and nurturing expansive gardens. Inside, she was a skilled seamstress, crafting fabric items with precision and care.
Community, Faith, & Legacy
- Faith: Janette was a woman of steady faith and an active parishioner at her local Catholic church, supporting the church’s local initiatives and community gatherings over her many decades in Gillespie.
- Philanthropic Spirit: Her commitment to the future of her community was reflected in the causes she championed. She was a supporter of the Partnership for Educational Excellence District #7, ensuring local children had access to strong educational opportunities.
- Longevity & Descendants: Janette was blessed with remarkable longevity, living to the incredible age of 102 years old. She passed away peacefully on December 17, 2024.
Her legacy continues through her two sons, her five grandchildren (Matt, Nikki, Scott, Mike, and Mallory), and her five great-grandchildren (Mia, Sloane, Ella, Macy, and Ryan), all of whom grew up surrounded by the stories, the beautiful antiques, and the lasting traditions she lovingly cultivated. She was laid to rest alongside her beloved Tony at Holy Cross Cemetery in Gillespie.
