Jan Lyle Jackson Bautz, a cherished wife, devoted mother, and beloved grandmother, passed away peacefully at home on October 31, 2026. Born on November 12, 1946, in Atlanta, Georgia, she was the daughter of Dorothy Lyle Bazemore Stith and Minyard David Jackson, Sr.

Jan grew up in Atlanta alongside her older brother, Minyard David Jackson, Jr. She attended The Arlington School and Headland High School before beginning her career with Delta Airlines. It was there that she met the love of her life, Charles Kothe Bautz, Jr. They married in January 1975 and went on to build a beautiful life together, sharing more than 50 years of marriage, love, and family.

Jan devoted her life to her family, and being a wife, mother, and grandmother was what she cherished most. She was the heart of her family and took great pride in raising her five children: Joseph Thomas Best, III; Patrick Kent Best; Charles Kothe Bautz, III; Dorothy Margaret Best Schnyder; and Clinton Ripley Bautz. Her love and legacy continue through her seven grandchildren: Sloane Marguerite Elizabeth Best, Joseph Thomas Best, IV, Ryley Macon Best, Etta Lyle Schnyder, Anna Elizabeth Schnyder, Amelia Grace Bautz, and Alexander Lyle Bautz.

Those who knew Jan will remember her quick wit, wonderful sense of humor, and charming personality. She had a way of bringing laughter into a room and making everyone feel special. She loved interior design and art, and her home was always a reflection of her creativity and eye for beauty. She was also a magnificent cook, and the meals she prepared were so much more than food; they were a way of bringing family and friends together. Her family’s most treasured memories were made around her table.

Above all, Jan loved her family. She found joy in the everyday moments, the family gatherings, the conversations, and simply having everyone together. Her dedication to those she loved was unwavering, and she leaves behind a lifetime of memories that all who knew her will hold close to their hearts.

Jan’s warmth, laughter, and creativity will be deeply missed. We are forever grateful for the life she lived, the family she created, and the love she gave to so many. Her memory will live on through the many lives she touched and the family she loved so dearly.

Forever loved, forever missed, and always in our hearts.

A memorial service celebrating Jan’s life will be held on November 7, 2026, at noon at College Park Cemetery, 3600 Adams Street, College Park, GA 30337.

Following the service, family and friends are invited to gather at Barbecue Kitchen, located at 1437 Virginia Avenue, just across the street from the cemetery, to share memories and celebrate her life.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made in honor of Jan to the Alzheimer's Association to support research, raise awareness, and provide support to families affected by Alzheimer's disease and dementia. Donations may be made in her memory at Alzheimer's Association ⁠.

Brunswick Memorial Park Funeral Home and Cremation Center was honored to assist the Bautz family.