Janice C. Schmalzel

Janice C. Schmalzel, age 74, of Little River, South Carolina, passed away on June 14, 2025, surrounded by her loved ones. Janice was born on May 5, 1951 in Passaic, New Jersey, to Stephen and Rita Fraunberger.

A dedicated medical biller by profession, Janice graduated at the top of her class in her medical billing program. She was known not only for her professional excellence but also for her deep compassion and commitment to helping others. She devoted countless hours volunteering at Kind Keep Animal Rescue, supporting outreach programs for the homeless, and organizing benefits to raise awareness for breast cancer-causes especially close to her heart.

Janice was proud to serve as Queen Mother of the Jazzy Jewels of South Carolina and Head Diva of the Blingy Beach Divas, where she led with heart, humor, and flair. She had a vibrant spirit and a deep love for travel, always seeking new experiences and connections. She was also well known for her incredible cooking skills, delighting friends and family with fabulous meals that brought people together and created lasting memories.

She was married to Richard Schmalzel for 50 years, sharing a life full of love, laughter and unwavering devotion, along with the companionship of her beloved pets. She is also survived by her daughter, Shawna Zahn of Cary, North Carolina, and her son-in-law, Michael Zahn. Janice was a proud and loving grandmother to her grandson, Matthew Stephen Zahn. She is also survived by her sister, Susan Fraunberger of Bartonsville, Pennsylvania, and her nieces, Kelly Troller and Jill Pastore both of New Jersey.

She will be remembered for her warmth, her giving heart, her larger-than-life personality, and the joy she brought to every room she entered. Her legacy of love, kindness, leadership and service lives on in all who had the privilege of knowing her.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to Kind Keeper Animal Rescue of North Myrtle Beach or to a homeless outreach organization in Janice's memory.

Lee Funeral Home and Crematory of Little River is serving the family.