Janice Lorraine Costa

Janice Lorraine Costa, a lifelong resident of New Bedford, Massachusetts, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by her family on September 9, 2025, at the age of 86. Born on October 2, 1938, in New Bedford, she was the daughter of the late Alphonse and Shirley G. (LaBrode) Fournier.

Janice dedicated her career to caring for others as a certified nursing assistant at Sacred Heart Home in New Bedford, where she worked until her retirement.

She was predeceased by her first husband, Robert Jeffrey Clapper, and her second husband, Carlton Roger Costa. Janice is survived by her three children: her son, Kevin Clapper, and his wife Ana of New Bedford; her daughter, Deborah Stull, and her partner Paul Vayanos of Middleboro; and her daughter, Cheryl Pike, and her husband Mark of Woodstock, Georgia. She also leaves behind her sister, Christine Kaylor of Westport, and was predeceased by her brother, Richard Fournier.

Janice cherished her role as a grandmother to six grandchildren: Lauren Clapper, Brady Clapper, Jonathan Pike, Kyle Pike, Abigail Pike, and Gregory Millen, as well as a great-grandmother to James Barrett Pendergraft. Her beloved cat, Ozzy, was a constant companion.

She enjoyed word search puzzles, shopping, reading, dining out, and spending time with her family and friends. Janice loved vacationing, especially in Aruba, and cherished her breakfast club gatherings at Panera Bread. Animals held a special place in her heart.

The family extends a special thank you to the Southcoast Hospice staff, Millie's girls, the staff at St. Luke's Hospital I.C.U., and her longtime tenant, Peter Snell, for their support and care.

Visiting hours will be held on Tuesday, September 23, 2025 from 4:00-7:00 pm at Rock Funeral Home, 1285 Ashley Blvd., New Bedford. A Graveside Service will be held on Wednesday, September 24, 2025 at 10:00 am at Sacred Heart Cemetery.

Please consider a donation to the following animal shelter: CARE Southcoast, PO Box 149, E. Freetown, MA 02717.