A Time to be Born: Janice Elaine Davis was born on Aug. 16, 1948, in Perry, Iowa, to her loving parents, Gail Henry Davis and Mary Melinda (Burke) Davis.
Janice graduated from Perry High School in 1966, where she excelled both academically and athletically, earning letters in basketball and track.
As the youngest of four siblings, she shared a lively and loving childhood with her brothers, Ronald Davis and Dwight “Butch” Davis, and her sister, Carol (Davis) Morrow. Their home was filled with laughter, playful pranks and outdoor adventures. They found joy in each other’s company—hosting gatherings, throwing parties and even being lovingly “asked” to sing and dance for their parents’ guests.
Those simple, joy-filled moments shaped the warmth, humor, and sense of togetherness that Janice carried throughout her life.
A Time to Grow: Janice dedicated more than 35 years of service to the University of Minnesota before her well-earned retirement.
She also spent more than 30 years as a fitness instructor at the YMCA, where she built lasting connections through many workout classes, such as body pump, cycling, step and water aerobics—just to name a few.
Her passion for giving back to the community extended far beyond her professional life—she was an active volunteer, doing taxes with AARP, participating in the Senior Companion Program with Lutheran Social Services and sharing in 5k walks and triathlons, always finding ways to uplift and support others around her.
A Time to Sing, Laugh and Dance: Janice lived a life filled with love, adventure and unwavering devotion to her family and friends. A true lover of music, you could find her singing with the Capri Senior Choir, at karaoke nights with friends and anywhere she had an audience.
She found joy in creating unforgettable memories through her travels and embracing every experience with an open heart.
As the matriarch of her family, Janice was the glue that held everyone together. She never missed a birthday, a milestone or a moment to celebrate those she loved.
She cheered proudly from the sidelines at her children’s and grandchildren’s sports games and performances, always their biggest supporter.
Whether hosting family game nights or enjoying long bike rides, she knew how to make the most out of every moment.
Janice also enjoyed the simple pleasures, like getting lost in a good book, indulging in her favorite Korean dramas and watching “People’s Court,” “Judge Judy” and “Jeopardy!” (often answering questions faster than the contestants).
Her love, wisdom and laughter will forever echo in the hearts of those who were lucky enough to know her.
A Time to Mourn: Janice is preceded in death by her parents, Mary Melinda (Burke) Davis and Gail Davis; as well as her siblings, Dwight “Butch” Davis, Ronald Davis and Carol Morrow; brother-in-law, Eldridge Morrow; nephew, Ronald Davis Jr.; and niece, Audrey Morrow.
A Time to Rest: On March 14, 2025, at 11:05 p.m. Janice passed away peacefully, surrounded by her two sons in the comfort of her home in North Minneapolis, Minnesota.
A Time to Remember: Janice leaves behind cherished memories with her children, Timothy Loyd and Wendell (Tameika) Johnson; her grandchildren, Shalea (Jaurai) Maxfield, Shanea Lee, Tichelle (Akim) Anderson), Jasir Johnson, Tiana Loyd, Trinity Johnson and Ja’ree Hopkins;, her sister-in-law, Beverly (Ronald) Davis; and a multitude of nieces and nephews; great-nieces and great-nephews; cousins; and friends.
