Today, we gather to remember and honor our mom—Janice- a woman who meant so much to so many, and everything to us.
It’s hard to put into words what she truly was, because she wasn’t just one thing. She was kind in a way that made people feel safe. She was caring in a way that made you feel seen and valued. And she was the kind of person who gave her love freely, without expecting anything in return.
She wasn’t just important to our family—she was important to so many people. She had a way of making everyone feel welcomed, loved, and cared for. And in our family, she was the glue that held us together. She kept us connected, she brought us back to each other, and she made sure we always knew what really mattered.
One of the ways she showed love was through food. If you ever came over, you were never leaving hungry. There was always something ready or something being made—grilled cheese, popcorn, Jacks Pizza, or her famous cherry delight. And if she wasn’t making something at home, she was ready to go out to eat, always happy to share a meal and time together. Those moments may seem simple, but that was her way of bringing people together and making them feel at home and loved.
Our mom had a quiet strength about her. She showed up for people. She listened. She sang and hummed. She cared. She made the ordinary moments feel meaningful, and the difficult moments feel a little less heavy just by being there. And even as she faced dementia, that strength never left her. It didn’t define her—it showed just how strong she truly was.
To us, she was more than a mom—she was comfort, guidance, and love all wrapped into one. She shaped who we are, and so much of what we carry with us every day comes from her.
We’ll miss her deeply—her voice ( Oh Mickey, OH Julie ,OH Cindy) her presence, the way she made things feel okay. But we also know that the love she gave doesn’t disappear. It stays with us. It shows up in the way we treat others, in the memories we hold onto, and in the lessons she taught us.
Heaven has gained a beautiful, smiling, laughing angel who loves doing crossword puzzles, but here on earth, we’ve lost someone truly irreplaceable.
Mom, we love you. We’ll carry you with us always.