It is with great sadness we announce the passing of Janice Kimbrell Jones, who died in Athens, Georgia, on Friday, April 17, 2026, following an extended battle with Alzheimer’s disease. Her courageous fight against the illness inspired all who knew her, demonstrating a resilience that remained evident until the end.
The community mourns the loss of a woman whose strength and dignity in the face of adversity served as a beacon of hope for others facing similar challenges. Her peaceful departure allows loved ones to reflect on a life defined by perseverance and unwavering spirit.
Jan was a native Texan, having grown up in Itasca, where she developed a deep pride in her roots that lasted throughout her life. Her upbringing in this small community instilled in her values of loyalty, hard work, and familial devotion. Even after moving to Georgia, she maintained strong ties to her hometown, often speaking fondly of her childhood memories and the people who shaped her early years. This connection to Texas remained a central part of her identity, influencing her approach to relationships and community engagement.
Despite the challenges posed by her illness, Jan left a legacy of love that touched the lives of many. She is survived by her sister, three sons, two stepdaughters, and their respective families, all of whom cherished her warmth and kindness. Her ability to maintain connections with loved ones, even as her memory faded, highlighted the depth of her emotional intelligence and compassion.
In accordance with her wishes, Jan will be buried in her hometown of Itasca, returning to the place where her journey began. This decision reflects her enduring attachment to her roots and her desire to rest among the memories of her youth. The family’s commitment to honoring her final requests demonstrates their respect for her autonomy and their understanding of what brought her comfort and joy.
The family will host a small graveside service on Tuesday, April 28, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at the Itasca Cemetery on South Wall Street. This intimate gathering provides an opportunity for close friends and relatives to pay their respects and share in their collective grief. The simplicity of the service reflects Jan’s humble nature and her preference for quiet moments of reflection over large public displays. It offers a sacred space for mourning and celebration within the community she loved.
Janice Kimbrell Jones is survived by her extensive family, who continue to uphold the values of love and resilience she exemplified. Her legacy endures in the hearts of those who were privileged to know her, reminding them of the importance of courage and connection in the face of life’s challenges. As her community reflects on her passing, they find comfort in the stories of her strength and her unwavering devotion to her loved ones. Her memory remains a testament to the power of a life lived with grace and dignity.
