By Cara Cowan Watts | Cherokee 411
April 19, 1951 – July 12, 2026
Tulsa, OK
Cherokee Nation Citizen
Janet Mable Raye Dugger, 75, of Tulsa, Oklahoma, passed away at her home on Sunday, July 12, 2026. She was born on April 19, 1951, in Colfax, Iowa. Affectionately known as “Janet from Another Planet,” Janet was truly a force to be reckoned with. She was strong-willed, determined, and always gave her best. When Janet set her mind to something, there was little doubt she would accomplish exactly what she set out to do. Those who knew her also knew it was wise to stay on her good side.
Janet Mable Raye Dugger served the Cherokee Nation with dedication for approximately 12 years, committing her career to the betterment of Cherokee citizens and those in need. During her tenure with Cherokee Nation Career Services as a Career Counselor, she devoted her life to empowering others by providing them with hope, stability, and opportunities for a new beginning.
Janet was strong, independent, and determined, but she also had a heart for people who needed someone in their corner. She spent much of her career helping others build better lives and advocating for oppressed people. She worked in Cherokee Nation Career Services and held many roles throughout the years, including career counselor, behavioral health rehabilitation specialist, Qualified Mental Health Professional, teacher, and direct manager. Her work took her to People’s, Inc., Job Corps, boys’ and girls’ homes, and the Cherokee Nation Healing to Wellness Court, where she worked with youth. She also volunteered at Taft–Jess Dunn Correctional Center. Janet was not afraid of difficult work or difficult people. In fact, she had a particular talent for both. She believed people deserved another chance, honest guidance, and someone willing to tell them what they needed to hear.
