Janice Marie Emmett (Souza)

Janice Marie Emmett (Souza) peacefully entered into rest in Turlock, CA at the young age of 74 on June 4, 2013. Janice was born as Merced’s first “New Year’s” baby on January 1, 1939 and was named after the Greek god-Janus. Her father father-John- died at 49 and her mother-Alice-at 54. Janice returned to Merced/Turlock after living in the Monterey Peninsula for over 40 years. There she worked with previous husband Robert Emmett as a restaurant owner and as a personal cook and property manager for Merv Griffin for over 20 years in Carmel Valley, CA.

She lived her life with love and compassion for her immediate and extended family and her pets. Janice always had a warm smile, a witty humor, and an open heart for all people. As a head waitress in Carmel, Janice had customers waiting in line to be served by her because of her vivacious and bubbly personality! She was immediately accepted by all strangers, customers, and exuded a genuine care and love for everyone. Janice’s major pride in life was her 5 children, for whom she was extremely proud.

She is survived by the children: Gary, Cindy, Lisa, Derek, and Jill and their spouses; along with 9 grandchildren, 1 great-grandchild, 2 sisters; Betty and Shirley, cousins- Carol, Linda, Loretta, John Joe, and Sandra, and best friend- Lynn. Anyone, who knew Janice, was truly “blessed” and thankful for that gift. She was a genuine angel on Earth, as she will be in heaven!

Services; Viewing is available on Sunday, June 9 from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m., at Whitehurst, Norton & Dias Funeral Chapel, 286 W. Main St., Turlock CA. Funeral ceremony will be Monday June 10, 2013 from 2:00-3:00 p.m. at Whitehurst, Norton & Dias Funeral Chapel, 286 W. Main St., Turlock CA.

Burial will follow at Calvary Cemetery in Merced CA at 4 p.m.

Arrangements are under the direction of Whitehurst, Norton & Dias Funeral Service 209-634-4904 (www.whitehurstnortondiasfunerals.com).