IN LOVING MEMORY OF
Janice Joyce
Pearce
November 2, 1940 – November 1, 2025
Janice Joyce Pearce, 84, of Arthur, Illinois, joined her heavenly Father on November 1, 2025, surrounded by her loving family at Arc at Hickory Point Nursing Home in Forsyth, Illinois.
Janice was born on November 2, 1940, in Twin Falls, Idaho, the beloved daughter of Raymond Holste Jr. of Idaho Falls and Mary (Gabhart) Holste of Twin Falls. Janice grew up in rural Nebraska, outside of Stapleton, where she developed the strong work ethic and cheerful spirit that defined her life. Active in 4-H, she earned state awards for baking and sewing, early signs of the warmth and creativity that later filled her home. A graduate of Stapleton High School, Class of 1959, Janice attended Iowa State University, where she met the love of her life, Gale L. Pearce.
They were married on June 2, 1961, in Lincoln, Nebraska, and shared sixty beautiful years together. In 1968, they settled in Arthur, Illinois, where Gale worked at the State Bank of Arthur and Janice raised their five children while working for Dr. Evelyn Moore, Optometry, as a Paraoptometric.
Janice was known for her quick wit, warm humor, and beloved "Momisms." These "Momisms" captured her blend of honesty, humor, and perspective that shapes how her family remembers her today. Her family cherishes memories of her famous sweet rolls, homemade fudge, and the ever-present pan of brownies ready for anyone who stopped by. She took great pride in hosting holiday gatherings, preparing traditional Midwest dishes, and decorating her table with thoughtful care.
After retirement, Janice found her greatest joy in her family. Her home was always filled with laughter and the smell of something baking in the oven. She delighted in her grandchildren's stories, accomplishments, and everyday moments, finding purpose and happiness in being part of their lives.
Janice was deeply committed to her community and faith. She volunteered at Beth's Place, a domestic violence shelter in Tuscola, where she offered comfort and practical help to women and families in need. She attended church faithfully, drawing strength from her faith and sharing it quietly through her kindness and example.
Janice supported her children in every endeavor, attending swing choir performances, track meets, sports games, and jazz band concerts. Her grandchildren will forever remember her as a source of love, encouragement, and humor. She believed in living simply, laughing often, and finding the good in every situation.
Janice was preceded in death by her father, who died near Okinawa in 1945 earning a Bronze Star for valor under fire, her mother, Mary, her stepfather, Mervin Rogers, her sister, Carolyn Ecenrode, and her devoted husband of sixty years, Gale L. Pearce.
She is survived by her five children: Timothy Pearce and his wife Deborah of St. Charles, Illinois, and their children Amanda Pearce (Jim) Mansfield, Gabrielle Pearce, and Christian Pearce; Matthew Pearce and his wife Kristie of Monticello, Illinois, and their children Malea (Alan) Warner, Gerad Pearce, and Cole (Katie) Hunt; Christiana Pearce of Champaign, Illinois, and her daughters Eva and Lila Pearce-Shields; Paul Pearce and his wife Nicola of Nemo, South Dakota, and their children Daniel (Katie) Pearce, Nathan Pearce, Madison Wells, and Desiree Leathers; and Catherine Becker and her husband Scott of Mt. Zion, Illinois, and their daughters Ella and Alaina. She is also survived by ten great-grandchildren who brought her immense joy.
The family extends heartfelt thanks to the many dear friends and caring staff at The Arthur Home, for their kindness, dignity, and loving care.
Janice will be remembered for her steady faith, her humor, and her unwavering love for her family. Her spirit lives on in every shared laugh, and every act of kindness.
A private family service will be held at Shrader Funeral Home in Arthur, Illinois, at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, November 8, 2025. A grave side service and burial will follow at the Arthur Cemetery.
Memorials in Janice's honor may be made to the Alzheimer's Association at www.alz.org.
Online condolences may be shared at www.hilligossshraderfh.com
Private Family Service
Shrader Funeral Home
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