Janice Marie Bento

Portland -With great sadness, we announce the peaceful passing of our beloved mother, aunt, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend, Janice Marie (Dick) Bento, of Portland, Maine. She passed away peacefully on October 3, 2025, surrounded by the love of her family.

Janice was born on June 26, 1939, in Presque Isle, Maine, the cherished daughter of Frank and Stella (Rogers) Dick. A proud “County girl,” she never missed a chance to share stories about her being an Aroostook County girl. She began her education in Presque Isle before moving to Portland to attend St. Joseph’s Academy. She later graduated from Portland High School with the Class of 1958.

Soon after graduation, Janice met the love of her life, Manuel Bento Sr. Together, they built a warm and loving home on Munjoy Hill, raising their four children in a household filled with love, laughter, and the aroma of home-cooked meals. Janice’s kitchen was truly the heart of her home—especially on Sundays after church and during the holidays, when she delighted in preparing large, delicious meals for her family.

Janice had a bubbly, kind, and funny personality that lit up every room she entered. She was quick to laugh and even quicker to make others laugh. But those who knew her best knew she also had another side—full of grit, sass, and just the right amount of "spunk and fire." She was never afraid to speak her mind, and she always let you know exactly how she felt, whether you were ready for it or not. Her honesty, humor, and bold spirit made her unforgettable.

Janice was a dedicated homemaker while her children were young and later worked as a compassionate Certified Nursing Assistant, known for her gentle care and deep commitment to her patients.

A devout Catholic, Janice was a longtime member of the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, where she served with joy as a fill-in Eucharistic Minister. Her faith was a cornerstone of her life, and she found special peace and inspiration in her travels to the Basilica of Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré in Québec making several trips.

Janice and Manuel shared a deep and enduring love for 46 years. One of their favorite pastimes was taking evening walks hand in hand along the Eastern Promenade, enjoying the simple beauty of the world around them.

She was predeceased by her beloved husband, Manuel Bento Sr., and her brothers, Dr. Richard J. Dick of Presque Isle, Franklin G. Dick of Portland, and Frederick “Teddy” Dick of Carlsbad, California.

Janice is survived by her devoted children:

• Michelle L. Bento and fiancé James Dyer of Saco

• Manuel Bento Jr. of Portland

• Barbara A. Goodwin and husband Philip of Cape Elizabeth

• Vickie L. Hamilton Bento of Winslow

She will be lovingly remembered by her eight grandchildren: Andrea Bento, John Michael Galli, Metalia Bento, Monica Purtell, Alex & Casey Goodwin, and Dantè & Dominique Hamilton; and five great-grandchildren: Benjamin Siekman, Kendra Davidson, Evalyn & Lorelei Purtell, and Makenzie Roy.

Janice also leaves behind many cherished nieces and nephews, all of whom held a special place in her heart.

The family wishes to thank all the staff at the Barron Center who cared for Janice during her stay there, your compassion and love will always be remembered.

The family invites you to a time of visitation on Thursday, October 9, 2025 from 4:30 PM to 6:30 PM at Jones-Rich-Barnes Funeral Home, 199 Woodford Street, Portland, ME 04103. A Mass of Christian Burial will occur Friday, October 10, 2025 from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, 307 Congress St, Portland, ME 04101 immediately followed by a committal service at Calvary Cemetery, 1461 Broadway, South Portland, ME 04106.