Janet Vou
January 29, 1951 – November 7, 2024

Janet Vou, beloved wife, mother, daughter, sister, aunt, and friend, passed away peacefully in Richland, WA, on November 7, 2024, after a courageous 7-year battle with breast cancer. Born on January 29, 1951, in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, Janet’s life was defined by resilience, love, and unwavering devotion to her family and community.

Raised in a Chinese merchant family, Janet’s early life was marked by adversity. When the Khmer Rouge regime began to shut down schools in Cambodia, she was sent to Vietnam to continue her education. She witnessed the fall of Saigon before bravely fleeing to Malaysia by boat, eventually arriving in the United States as a refugee, filled with hope and determination. Janet worked tirelessly, holding multiple jobs while attending Columbia Basin College part-time, where she earned her Associate of Arts degree. Through her efforts and sacrifices, she helped sponsor the rest of her family’s journey to the U.S., demonstrating the love and strength that would define her life.

Janet dedicated 39 years of work at Lamb West/ConAgra in various QA roles before becoming a micro-bacteriologist. Her coworkers became dear friends she cherished, and her work brought her pride and a sense of purpose. These friendships and memories made her career feel like a second family and a lifetime of cherished bonds.

To all who knew her, Janet will forever be remembered as a fighter. She was fierce, selfless, and tenacious in all her roles—as a mother, aunt, daughter, friend, neighbor, and colleague. She embraced life’s adventures, whether exploring new places, indulging her sweet tooth, or sharing joyful moments with loved ones. Janet was a selfless, empathetic person who ensured others were cared for before herself. Her warmth, generosity, and kindness filled the lives of those around her with love and laughter.

She is survived by her husband, Phauv Se Vou; her sons, Jason and Thompson Vou; her mother, Yin Liu; her brother, Young Huang; and her sisters, Hue Hampton and Annie Tieu. Janet’s family wishes to extend heartfelt thanks to all who supported her, shared laughter with her, and made memories with her. Her legacy of love, strength, and kindness will continue to inspire us each day.

Janet, you will forever be in our hearts. We love you more than words can say.