Janet L. "Baldy" Zeider age 89 of Garrett, IN passed away Tuesday, January 6, 2026 surrounded by her loving family. Baldy was born June 27, 1936 in Garrett, IN to Harold W. and Inza C. (Pyatt) Zeider. Baldy worked as a grinder operator at Electric Motors – Garrett, IN for 44 years, retiring in 1999. She also worked at Bill's Liquor Store and the Garrett Recycling Center.

Baldy worked for 17 years at G-K-B School system with the custodial staff and transportation department. She was the Garrett Citizen of the Year in 1984. She coached volleyball and basketball at St. Joseph Catholic School. She was a player/coach for the Bill's Liquor Store and Gropps traveling softball teams.

Baldy was a member of the Garrett American Legion, VFW and St. Joseph Catholic Church.

A beloved figure in Garrett, Baldy was known for her immense contributions and pioneering efforts for Garrett Girls youth softball. This included helping to build the field, leading the league and coaching for many years. The major league girls' softball field was named in her honor. She will be remembered for throwing out opening pitches, presenting awards and her overall dedication to the kids and the sport, embodying the spirit of Garrett Softball.

Baldy is survived by her nieces and nephews: Dan Cain, Sandra Cain Stanford, Terry Diederich, Bobby Diederich, Lynne Stebing, Tony Diederich, Linda Weyrick, Mary Jordan, Laura Zeider and Annie Schenkel.

She was preceded in death by her parents: Harold W. and Inza C. Zeider; brother: William Zeider; twin sister: Janice "Skinner" Diederich; sisters: Nulah Cain and Mary Zeider; nephews: Doug Cain and Steve Zeider; niece: Brenda Cain.

Visitation will take place from 4-7 p.m. Friday, January 9, 2026 at Thomas Funeral Home, 1277 C.R. 56, Garrett, IN and from 10 – 11 a.m. Saturday, January 10, 2026 at St. Joseph Catholic Church.

For the viewing we encourage you to wear your favorite college or school sports t-shirt/jersey etc. - casual attire.

Mass of Christian Burial will take place at 11 a.m. Saturday at St. Joseph Catholic Church with Fr. Brian Isenbarger officiating. Please wear church attire for the Mass.

Memorials are to St. Joseph Catholic School or Garret Youth Softball.

You may send a condolence or sign the on-line register book by visiting: www.thomasfuneralhome.org

St. Joseph Catholic School

Garrett Youth Softball