Janice Harding

Janice Harding, 72, of Waterford, New Jersey, passed away peacefully on January 13, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family. Born on September 23, 1953, in Woodbury, NJ, Janice grew up in Barrington before making Waterford her lifelong home, a place where she built her family, her friendships, and a life filled with love.

A woman of deep Catholic faith, Janice lived her life with a quiet devotion that guided her actions, her generosity, and the way she cared for others. Her faith was rooted early in her childhood, when she attended Catholic school, and it remained a steady foundation throughout her life. When she felt well enough, she loved attending Mass at Christ the Redeemer Parish with her granddaughter, moments that brought her joy, connection, and peace. She also cherished livestreaming Mass from St. Patrick's Cathedral on her iPad, a comforting ritual that kept her close to her faith.

For nearly 25 years, Janice proudly served the Waterford Township School District as a school bus driver. She was known for her warm smile, her patience, and the gentle care she showed to every child who stepped onto her bus. She also served as Director of the Waterford Summer Program, a role in which she poured her heart into creating safe, fun, and memorable experiences for local children. To generations of families, she was a steady, comforting presence who made the start and end of each school day and each summer brighter.

Janice was predeceased by her beloved husband, Walter Harding; her mother, Margaret Kozel (née Berbakov); her father, William Kozel; and her sister, Suzanne Kozel.

She leaves behind her cherished children: Walter Harding (Anne), Michael Harding (Brandi), and Jennifer Insua (Gabriel). She is also survived by her loving siblings, William Kozel (Jeanie) and Debbie Simon (Todd). Janice was blessed with grandchildren who were the absolute joy of her life: Alissa, Macy (Moss), Gabrianna (Nicholas), Adrianna, Trent, and Kyler. She also leaves behind many nieces, nephews, and cousins, each of whom held a special place in her heart. A special expression of gratitude goes to her nephew, Todd Simon Jr., who lovingly helped her maintain the home she cherished.

Janice lived a life centered on family, tradition, and simple joys. She loved vacationing in Wildwood, fishing on the boat in her younger years, and taking trips to Florida and Disney World, places that filled her with happiness and created memories her family will forever cherish. She enjoyed camping with family and friends, neighborhood parties, and trips to the Poconos, where laughter and togetherness were always at the heart of every gathering. She enjoyed the fun and excitement of spending time at the casinos, where she loved the energy and the chance to share laughs with those she loved. She made every family birthday feel special, and Christmas Eve was one of her most treasured traditions, an evening she filled with warmth, excitement, and love for all who gathered.

Her home was always a gathering place. Neighbors became like family, and the neighborhood kids/friends naturally gravitated to her house, where they knew they were welcome. She always made the best breakfast for all the friends who gathered there, never letting anyone leave hungry and treating every guest like family. Holidays were her favorite time of year, filled with traditions she lovingly passed down. "Cookies with Grandma" became a cherished ritual, one her grandchildren will carry with them throughout their lives.

Above all, Janice adored her family. Her grandchildren were her heart, her pride, and her greatest blessing. She poured love into every moment with them, creating memories that will continue to warm their lives.

Janice will be remembered for her generosity, her devotion to family, and the gentle, steady love she offered to everyone fortunate enough to know her. Her faith-filled spirit will live on in the traditions she created, the family she nurtured, and the love she gave so freely.

Per Janice's wishes, there will be no funeral service; arrangements will be private for immediate family only. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Christ the Redeemer Parish, 318 Carl Hasselhan Drive, Atco, NJ 08004,