Janice Louise Derrickson

Janice Louise Derrickson, age 84, of Owasso, Oklahoma, passed peacefully into the arms of Jesus on May 23, 2025.

Janice was born on December 26, 1940, in Waco, Texas, to Barto R. "Cotton" Collier and Ruby Edna Gordon. She was lovingly raised by her maternal grandmother, Lillie Gordon, whom she affectionately called "Granny." Janice often spoke of the profound impact her Granny had on her life, crediting her as the greatest influence and expressing deep gratitude for the many sacrifices made on her behalf.

Janice was a woman of deep faith, quick wit, and unwavering determination. She dedicated her life to serving others with compassion and strength. A proud graduate of Waco High School, Janice went on to attend Concordia Lutheran College, where she studied Elementary Education. She began her teaching career in Michigan before returning to her hometown of Waco.

Her professional journey reflected her commitment to making a difference. She served as a Case Worker for Children's Protective Services for 10 years, an Employment Supervisor at the Texas Employment Commission for 11 years, and a Training Manager for Chrysler Technologies Airborne Systems for 6 years. She concluded her career with 6 years of service at the City of Waco before retiring.

Janice's heart for community shone brightly through her passion for the arts. She was a beloved actress and director at the Waco Civic Theatre, Baird Youth Theatre, and Derrickson Theatrical Studio. In retirement, she continued her artistic leadership as the Managing Director of the Tin Building Theatre and the Hubbard Community Children's Theatre.

Her legacy is one of service, creativity, and resilience-a life lived with purpose and strength. Her life wasn't easy by any means but she never gave up trying to make things better for her family.

She was a devoted wife, mother, sister, grandmother, and friend. Janice is survived by her loving family: her sister, Theresa Surley (Carl), her children, Russell Collier (Dusty), Michael Derrickson aka Bo (Jennifer), Kathie Johnson, and Scott Derrickson (Jennifer). Janice had 14 grandchildren: Chaunce Collier, Whitney Poston, Hannah Kilbury, April Kasten, Andy Derrickson, Stacey Watson, Miranda Noel, Chance Derrickson, Conner Derrickson, Delyla Derrickson, Callie Maxey, Wyatt Johnson, Thomas Derrickson and Taylor Derrickson. She had 15 great-grandchildren: Mason Collier, Jaiden Webb, Finley Poston, Ariana Kilbury, Josiah Kilbury, Eliana Kilbury, Riley Kasten, Austyn Kasten, Alexis Wallace, Jaxson Derrickson, Luke Watson, Weston Noel, Eli Noel, Azrael (Azzy) William Maxey, Scottee Marie Derrickson.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her beloved Granny and her son, Arnold (Arnie) James Derrickson III (Leanne). She often spoke of her desire to be with Granny and Arnie in Heaven as she missed them terribly. She cherished every moment with her family and found great joy in their accomplishments, their laughter, and their love.

Janice had a passion for community theatre, teaching/training, crystal mining, playing Skipbo, painting and her games with FB friends . She will be remembered for her generous giving to those around her, her wit with words, and her unwavering support of those she loved.

A Memorial service will be held on June 16, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. at Stilwell Retirement Home 5400 Laurel Lake Dr Waco, Texas in their Community room.. Memorials are to be made to: Bruceville-Eddy UMC 103 Ausborn Eddy, Texas 76524 OR Seasons Hospice 6532 E 71st St Tulsa, OK 74133