Janice L. Cooper

Janice L. Cooper, 62, of Belton, Missouri, passed away peacefully on September 23, 2025, at Centerpoint Hospital in Independence, Missouri, surrounded by her loving family.

Janice was born on December 6, 1962, in Jackson County, Missouri, to Richard and Carolyn Lemken. She was a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother who gave selflessly to those she loved. A natural caretaker, Janice would give anything for her children, often going without so they wouldn't have to.

She was a woman of deep faith, raising her family in the Baptist church and holding tightly to her spirituality throughout her life. She had a creative spirit and was proud to have her uniquely shaped puzzles published in several magazines. Janice also found joy in crocheting, making countless blankets, doilies, and homemade gifts, a hobby she sadly had to give up later in life due to arthritis.

Janice was known for her generous heart, her sense of humor, and her love of life's simple pleasures, especially cheeseburgers, tacos (even before 10 a.m.), scratch-off lottery tickets, and trips to the casino. She had a lucky streak with scratchers and was always ready for an adventure.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Leslie W. Cooper (2014); son, Jeremy L. Cooper (2017); and parents, Richard and Carolyn Lemken.

Janice is survived by her daughters, Jerri Cooper and Carol (Cody) Johnson; six grandchildren; sister, Julie Carpenter; nephews; grandmother, Betty Leach; and many other family members and friends whom she loved dearly.

In accordance with Janice's wishes, there will be no formal service or visitation. Instead, her children plan to take a trip to spread her ashes, honoring her request to return to the earth as soon as possible. Contributions toward this memorial journey are welcome for expenses for travel.

Memorial contributions are suggested to a local Kansas City area mental health organization. Janice lived with both physical and mental health challenges for many years, and supporting others on that path would be a meaningful tribute.

The family extends their heartfelt thanks for all the love, support, and kind words they've received during this time.