Janice Marie Washburn passed away peacefully on October 29, 2025, at the age of 78. Born on December 29, 1946, in Port Arthur, Texas, Janice was the youngest of two daughters born to John and LaVerne Hayes. She grew up in a home filled with love, laughter, and strong Christian values that shaped her compassionate spirit and unwavering faith.
From an early age, Janice displayed a deep curiosity about the world and a gift for connecting with others. She graduated from Park Forest Accelerated High School in Beaumont, Texas, before attending Baylor University and Texas A&M University. She later earned her bachelor's degree in education from Lamar College and completed her Master's in Special Education from Sam Houston State University. Education was not just her career—it was her calling and lifelong ministry.
Janice began her teaching career in the early 1970s with Beaumont ISD, where she quickly earned the admiration of her colleagues and the affection of her students. She continued her distinguished career teaching at Monahan Elementary and later retired from New Caney ISD in 2004 after more than 30 years of dedicated service. Known for her patience, creativity, and steadfast belief that every child could learn, Janice was the kind of teacher who made each student feel seen, valued, and loved.
On August 27, 1976, Janice married the love of her life, Charles Washburn. Their 49 years together were filled with faith, laughter, and adventure. They traveled the world side by side, exploring new countries, meeting new friends, and cherishing every journey, whether across the globe or across Texas. Janice and Charles shared an extraordinary bond rooted in devotion, friendship, and enduring love.
Janice's faith was the cornerstone of her life. A devoted follower of Christ, she lived out her beliefs through humility, service, and compassion. For more than 20 years, she was an active member of Bible Study Fellowship, where she deepened her understanding of Scripture and encouraged others through her insight and gentle spirit. She also served faithfully in the Auxiliary of The Gideons International, supporting the mission of spreading God's Word and bringing hope to people everywhere.
Janice was a dedicated member of West Conroe Baptist Church, where she joyfully participated in worship and ministry alongside dear friends who became like family. Her faith was not just something she studied—it was something she lived each day with sincerity and grace.
Those who knew Janice will remember her as the heart of every gathering and the glue that held her family close. She stayed connected through regular phone calls, thoughtful cards for every birthday, and her love of family traditions. Janice treasured time spent with those she loved, especially during family gatherings and friendly card games around the table. Her passion for scrapbooking preserved memories that told the story of her family's life together, and she found joy in pulling others into the inner circle of that family bond. Once you were part of Janice's world, you were loved as family.
Beyond her career and ministry, Janice found joy in reading, traveling, horseback riding, and growing in her faith. She loved gathering with family and friends, celebrating holidays, and creating treasured memories that will live on for generations. Her grandchildren were her pride and joy, and she relished every opportunity to share in their lives and accomplishments.
A Legacy of Love and Faith
Janice leaves behind a beautiful legacy of love and faith that lives on through her beloved family. She is survived by her loving husband of 49 years, Charles Washburn. Children: Blake (Mellaine) Barron, Jennifer (Daniel) Hanna, Kathi (Donnie) Walker, Lisa (Ward) Griffing, and Charles Craig (Robin) Washburn. Grandchildren: Kyle (Sasha) Walker, Justice Barron, Taylor (Samantha) Hanna, Skylar (Amanda) Barron, Cody Walker, Emma (Jonny Goldstein) Griffing, Glenn (Abby) Hanna, Jonathan (Morgun) Jones, Clayton (Rylee) Hanna, Justin (Sierra) Cooper, Charlie Washburn, George Campbell (Italia) Griffing, Jordan Washburn, Felicity Barron, and Maddie Hanna. Great-grandchildren: Seventeen loving great-grandchildren, ranging in age from 14 years old to 1 month old, who will carry forward her spirit, faith, and joy for life. Janice was preceded in death by her parents, John and LaVerne Hayes; her sister, Patricia Markwardt; niece, Anne Virjee; granddaughter, Martha Griffing; and numerous beloved cousins, aunts, and uncles.
A celebration of Janice's life will be held on November 6, 2025, at West Conroe Baptist Church in Conroe, Texas, officiated by Dr. Jesse Payne. Family and friends are invited to gather, share memories, and honor the remarkable life of a woman whose love and faith made the world brighter.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in Janice's memory to The Gideons International or Bible Study Fellowship, organizations that reflect her lifelong devotion to God's Word and her passion for sharing His love with others.
“Well done, good and faithful servant… enter into the joy of your Lord.” — Matthew 25:23
The family kindly requests that any floral arrangements be delivered to American Heritage Funeral Home 10710 Veterans Memorial Dr Houston, Texas 77038 by Wednesday November 5th, 2025 3:00PM. To ensure they are displayed for the service.
