Janet Jaeger Kuhlmann

Janet Jaeger Kuhlmann, 87, of Sumter, SC, passed away peacefully on Monday, October 13, 2025, surrounded by family and love.

Born on March 13, 1938, in Florence, South Carolina, and raised in Marion, SC, Janet was the daughter of the late Henry and Mary Jaeger. A gifted musician from an early age, she pursued her passion at Columbia College, earning a degree in music. There she formed lifelong friendships with Selena, Selwyn, and Tibby—bonds that lasted a lifetime. Selena would later become her sister-in-law, having married Janet’s beloved brother, Keith.

Janet married the love of her life, Joseph Kuhlmann, on November 11, 1961, beginning a joyful journey as a military wife, filled with travel, community, and resilience. Together they raised three children, Joey, David and Mark, and she later became a proud grandmother to nine and great-grandmother to two.

Janet was a lifelong member of the Presbyterian Church and a devoted member of the Sumter Presbyterian Church since 1971. Her faith and love of music were deeply intertwined. She served faithfully in the church choir and was the founder of the church’s handbell choir—sharing her musical gifts with generations of congregants.

A gifted piano teacher, Janet taught hundreds of students over the years, instilling in them not only technical skill but a deep appreciation for the art of music.

Her love of the natural world led her to become a certified Master Gardener, and she found great joy in birdwatching and nurturing beauty and butterflies in her garden.

Janet was preceded in death by her husband, Joe; her parents, Henry and Mary; her sister, Mary Ellen; and her brother, Keith.

She is survived by her three children, Joey, David and Mark, and nine grandchildren, who will carry forward her legacy of love, music, and quiet strength.

A private family service celebrating Janet’s life will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to:

The First Presbyterian Church of Sumter, Handbell Choir, 9 West Calhoun St., Sumter, SC 29150.

Riemann Family Funeral Home, Long Beach, MS, is serving the family. Please sign the online guestbook, and share memories at www.riemannfamily.com