Janice Lea Humphrey

We said goodbye to Janice Lea Humphrey, our best friend, confidant, buddy, mother, and loving partner. She built our confidence when there was none and encouraged us to be strong when we thought we couldn’t be. She demonstrated grace and forgiveness when we couldn’t muster enough.

She was our fierce protector - ready for battle when someone wronged us. She never let us forget who we were, what we were capable of, and what was expected of us. She was resilient and smart. She made friends with everyone. She never let anyone feel unloved or unwanted.

The open-door policy was the only policy at our home. It may have been the only rule we had. You were welcome to whatever we had and she even remembered her children’s friend’s favorite things and kept those things on hand.

You may have shared a joke, a beer, maybe even a cigarette with her. She had a wicked sense of humor and a lead foot behind the wheel.

We could write all day about her and it would not be enough. She was one of a kind - the original unicorn. She made her own clothes. She used old ties to make the most beautiful skirt. Her shoes always, always made a statement.

Her accomplishments were many, from her time at Planned Parenthood - making a difference for young women - to her work with the PGA at Firestone. Her love of bowling, bingo, and a special love of golf was well known. She had a love of salt in beer before we were rimming the beer glass - a trendsetter.

We were with her in her last moments and we wouldn’t have had it any other way. Her children always let her know they were grateful she brought them into the world, and we were honored to walk the very last part of her journey home with her.

We will miss every minute but know she is surrounded by love in a warm, sunny place making sure everyone has what they need. She might even be doing it on roller skates. We will forever be missing her but will be better human beings because of her.

A private family memorial service will be held. A celebration of life will be held at a later date. In honor of Janice, and in lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Race to Erase MS or The Lupus Foundation of America. The family welcomes memories and messages in their guest book online at www.cookcares.com.