Janell McPherson

Janell Claire McPherson of Topeka, Kansas, beloved mother to Chad and Lee Benaka and favorite sister of Deanna Brooks, passed away on March 24, 2026. Janell was born in Lawrence, Kansas, on January 13, 1946, to Bessie and Irwin Greer. She spent her early years in Baldwin, Kansas, before moving to Topeka. In addition to her love for Chad and Lee, Janell also loved and took great pride in her grandchildren Elias Benaka, Dinah Benaka, and Isaac Benaka. Janell was thrilled that her boys found amazing partners in Margaret Benaka and Danielle Feuillan. Janell worked a variety of jobs during her life, but her proudest accomplishment was co-founding Positive Solutions, an estate sale business that also provided services for seniors transitioning to smaller homes. Janell’s family and friends will miss her irreverent sense of humor and her cooking, including her salmon croquettes, 7-Up salad, and pies. Janell’s grandchildren will especially miss her thoughtful and fun Christmas presents, a highlight of the holiday each year. Janell was preceded in death by her second husband, Ralph Campbell, who co-founded Positive Solutions with her and traveled with her to various parts of the United States, from Washington to Florida. Janell was also preceded in death by her third husband, Larry McPherson, who was devoted to her and took great care of her. In addition to her sons and sister, Janell is survived by her first husband, Robert Benaka; grandchildren, Elias, Dinah, and Isaac Benaka; stepchildren, Rebecca Johnson, Cris Salsbury, and Bob McPherson; and step-grandchildren, Meghan Lewis, Adam Salsbury, and Emily and Ethan McPherson. A celebration of life, where Janell’s family will greet friends from 3 to 5 p.m. Friday, March 27, 2026, at Kevin Brennan Family Funeral Home at 2801 SW Urish Road, Topeka KS 66614. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Helping Hands Humane Society (https://www.hhhstopeka.org/donate-online/) or ACLU Kansas (https://action.aclu.org/give/support-aclu-kansas) and sent in care of the funeral home. Condolences may be sent online to www.kevinbrennanfamily.com.

Janell McPherson

January 13, 1946 - March 24, 2026