Janice Irene Lett

Janice Irene Lett, (née Wood) age 83, passed away on August 27^th surrounded by her loved ones. Born on June 9, 1941, in Cortland, New York, as the 9^th of 13^th children, she was the beloved daughter of Iva (Weeks) and Lewis Wood.

As a child she and her family lived in various communities in rural upstate New York.  She was particularly close to her oldest sister Fern Wood Crandall, who helped raise her. Janice gravitated to caregiving of children and babies and had several live-in nanny positions with families in the area.

Janice was a mother, grandmother and sister, known for her kindness, generosity, work ethic, and sense of humor. She lived in many areas of the country – growing up in New York State, moving to California, Indiana, Illinois, Wisconsin, Iowa, and then Chicago.  She dedicated her life to her passion for caring for children.  Her love for gardening, cooking from scratch, canning, and caring for others brought joy to everyone around her. She was known for her thrifty nature and had a passion for treasure hunting, always finding joy in discovering hidden gems. She was particularly wise when it came to money and knew how to stretch a dollar. Her wise and careful management of money was a testament to her resourcefulness and practical nature, ensuring that her family of 5 children always had what they needed.

Janice was a devoted mother of 5 who cherished her faith, her children, and her role as a homemaker. Her unwavering faith was a cornerstone of her life, guiding her actions and providing strength and comfort to those around her. She found immense joy in nurturing her family, creating a warm and loving home filled with laughter and love. Her children were her pride and joy, and she dedicated herself to their well-being and happiness. Her legacy of love, faith, and dedication will forever be remembered by all who knew her.

She is survived by 5 children, Brenda Lett Koch (Michael) of Harrisonville Missouri, Brian (Debi), of Eden Prairie MN, Pam Clements (Joe) of Decatur TX, Cynthia Lett, (Bruce Yeager) of Chicago, and Bonnie Deare, Eden Prairie, MN.  Her true joy were her 9 grandchildren:  Ashton Boone, Lexie Clements, Jordan Clements, Hunter and Zachary Koch, Connor Lett, Tia Deare, Evan and Aneliese Yeager. She also leaves behind four great grandchildren, Aiden, Blueberry, Joy, and Stetson. Additionally, she is survived by two dear and loving sisters of Cortland NY, Patty Cranson and Joyce Alexander, along with many nieces and nephews who will forever cherish her memory.  Janice was preceded in death by 7 brothers and 3 sisters.

A service will be held on Tuesday September 3^rd for close family at Acacia Cemetery in Chicago. Interment will follow.  In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to The Moody Radio of Chicago in her honor.