Janice "Jan" Sue Venters

Janice Sue (Robbins) Venters, 83, passed away May 24, 2025, at Legacy Circle of Life in Bentonville, Arkansas, after a brief and unexpected illness.

Jan was born in Fayetteville, Arkansas on August 9, 1941, although she considered herself to be a proud native of Bentonville. Her parents were Audrey and Sherman Robbins. Jan attended Bentonville High School, graduating in 1959. Sharing her beloved Bentonville with visitors would include a drive by "the old school" on NW 2nd Street fondly telling stories of starting the 1st grade at one end and finishing the 12th grade at the other end. Upon graduation, she attended the University of Arkansas but found her real calling in the skies as an airline hostess for Braniff Airways. Jan's passion for travel led her to meet her husband, Ron Ericson, on a flight from Dallas, TX to San Antonio, TX. Ron and Jan dated for a few years before marrying on December 27, 1963. They had their first and only child, Kristin, in 1965 and built their life throughout the state of Washington before residing in Spokane, WA. Jan was instrumental in many organizations in Spokane, but the one that touched her heart the most was St. Joseph's Children's Home, an orphanage for children in need. She spent her time coordinating luncheons, auxiliaries, and one of the city's most beautiful Christmas fund-raising dinners. Jan was also involved in several women's committees, and was a force in the PTA. Her devotion continued in an immense love for her daughter. Weekends were spent taking Kristin to basketball games and golf tournaments throughout the Pacific Northwest. Jan was an intuitive teacher walking the talk of everything she believed. She was humble, kind, compassionate, giving, inspiring, loving, and beautiful in every way.

Jan began a journey in the retail fine jewelry business and, after gaining knowledge and experience through multiple channels, attended and graduated from the National Gemology Institute as a certified Gemologist with a specialty in fine diamonds. When she returned to Bentonville, she created her own jewelry business offering unique and unusual pieces gathered through many trips to Europe, the Middle East, and Asia. Most trips were shared by her sister, Carol and often times her mother, "Audie", always becoming adventures they loved to tell their friends about. Jan and her daughter, Kristin also shared the passion for seeing the world as they traveled overseas on many business and golf trips over the years.

After the passing of her first husband in 1983, Jan returned home to Bentonville to be with her mother and sister. A high school reunion opened the next chapter in her life when she was reconnected with a high school friend, Wallace Venters. They married in 1986.

Jan was a huge advocate for animals and supported Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge and many other smaller clinics. She was known to "slip" a few dollars here and there, always benefiting those shelters and rescues needing it the most. Jan's true loves were her two Ragdoll "kitties", Cashmere and Camisue. She was also a concerned American citizen who believed in voting for the Democratic way of life, hoping for respect and unity. One of her last comments before passing was to her daughter. She whispered, " I hope this country finds its way back to peace."

Loved beyond words, Jan is survived by her husband, Wallace Venters of Bentonville; her daughter, Kristin Ericson of Snowmass Village, Colorado and Bentonville; her sister, Carol Caldwell Clifford and brother-in-law, Ed Clifford, as well as treasured friends around the world.

There will be a graveside service at 3:00PM, June 19, 2025, at the Bentonville Cemetery, followed by a Celebration of Life at the Arbors Clubhouse. Friends are invited to the gathering for this farewell moment to celebrate her life and say goodbye to a mother, sister, friend, and amazing woman who made an indelible mark in so many people's lives.

In lieu of flowers, gifts in Jan's memory may be made to Legacy Circle of Life, Bentonville, Arkansas or Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge.