Jan Dale Alderson 62, of St. Petersburg, died March 19, 2018. She is survived by her beloved children Lisa Lesperance and Gregory Lesperance; mother Eleanor Alderson; sister Ann Alderson; and many loving relatives and dear friends.
Jan grew up in St. Petersburg and graduated from Florida Atlantic University in 1977, then went on to join her father (the late E.J. 'Eddy' Alderson), in the family greyhound racing business. She eventually took over Alderson Kennel when Eddy retired in 1997, as the third generation of the Alderson racing dynasty at Derby Lane in St. Petersburg. Under Jan, Alderson Kennel became the longest tenured kennel in Derby Lane history, dating back to the 1930s.
Jan loved animals, history, mythology and the Beatles, and was an avid reader. She was curious about the world and enjoyed traveling. She was generous and kind-hearted, and never met a stray dog or cat she wouldn't take in. She was a devoted and selfless mother and a fiercely loyal friend who will be missed beyond measure.
The family would like to thank Suncoast Hospice for the loving care they provided in her final days.
A memorial service to celebrate Jan's life will be held this Saturday, March 24 at 3:00pm at R. Lee Williams Funeral Home, 3530 49th St. N. The family will receive friends 1 hour prior. In lieu of flowers, donations in Jan's honor may be made to St. Pete's Friends of Strays Animal Shelter at friendsofstrays.com.