Legacy Village of Murrells Inlet resident Janet Trupiano’s story begins far from here, in Wiesbaden, Germany, where she was born on July 13th to Joe and Jane Trupiano. As a baby, her family moved to St. Louis before finally settling in sunny California. Growing up with her younger sister Joan, who is seven years her junior, Janet spent most of her childhood surrounded by the vibrant culture of California.



In 1958, the military called her father to Myrtle Beach to help build the Air Force base, bringing the family east. Janet attended Socastee High School before returning to California to finish high school in San Bernardino. One of her fondest childhood memories is sitting in the audience of game shows, eagerly clapping when the “Applaud” light came on—a small but joyful moment that captures her lively spirit.

Janet’s educational journey took her back to the Southeast, attending Coker College in Hartsville, North Carolina, before transferring to Coastal Carolina University. She ultimately earned her degree from the University of South Carolina Columbia, majoring in visual arts and archaeology. Her love for adventure and discovery shines through her college experiences, especially the archaeology digs she took part in Mexico—moments she recalls as some of the best times of her life.

It was during her college years that Janet met her husband, with whom she shared 16 wonderful years and together raised their amazing daughter, Rachel. Inspired by her role as a mother, Janet returned to college to earn her teaching certification. She began teaching art in public schools in 1996 and continued until her retirement in 2014. Reflecting on her career, Janet says, “It was SO much fun that I would forget about my paycheck!” Even after retiring, her passion for education didn’t wane. She continued working and volunteering in schools and developed a unique business creating 3D bulletin boards—an art form that quickly became highly sought after in her community. So passionate is she about this craft that she is now writing a book about designing and creating 3D bulletin boards.

Since joining Legacy Village, Janet’s love for art, teaching, and her faith remain central to who she is. She carries a servant’s heart in everything she does, finding daily joy and inspiration through her relationship with God.

If you ever have the chance to meet Janet, don’t miss it. Her kindness, creativity, and spirit make her a truly remarkable part of our community.