Janet Ann Penns-White

Janet Ann Penns-White, beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, great-great grandmother and faithful servant of God, was called home to be with the Lord on Monday, May 11, 2026, at the age of 86. Janet was born in New Orleans, Louisiana, to the late Rev. James Anderson Penns Sr. and Luella Collins Penns. Janet was one of thirteen children and the elder twin of the late James Anderson Penns Jr. Janet was the beloved wife of the late James L. White Sr., and loving mother of four children; Gwendolyn White-Norwood (Kelvin), James Louis White Jr. (Jennifer), Paquita White-Williams (James), and Michael Theodore White. She was a proud grandmother of 14, great-grandmother of 20, and great-great-grandmother of 4. A dedicated educator, Janet graduated from Booker T. Washington High School, Delgado Community College, and Southern University at New Orleans. She retired from the Orleans Parish School Board after teaching for more than 30 years. Janet was a faithful servant of God who dedicated her life to the Lord. She was a powerful dynamic, spiritual speaker, a true prayer warrior who wore many HATS in the spiritual realm. Throughout her life she was the organist for numerous churches and organizations. At the time of her passing, she was a member and the organist of First African Baptist Church under the leadership of Pastor Leonard St. Cyr. Janet was known for her joyful spirit, unwavering faith, and signature phrase, “I’m Super Good and Getting Better.” She often reminded everyone, “Don’t let anyone or anything steal your joy.” Her love, kindness, and legacy will continue to live on through all who knew and loved her. She is proceeded in death by her husband, father, mother, six sisters, and two brothers. Funeral services will be held at St. Stephens Missionary Baptist Church, 1737 L B Landry Ave, New Orleans, LA 70114 on Saturday, May 23, 2026 at 10:00 a.m. Visitation will begin at 9:00 a.m. Final resting place Providence Memorial Park and Mausoleum, located at 8200 Airline Drive, Metairie, LA 70003. Arrangements by D.W. Rhodes Funeral Home, 3933 Washington Ave. New Orleans, La 70125. Please visit www.rhodefuneral.com to sign the online guestbook.