Janice Williams Obituary
Janice Battey Williams, 79, a gifted creative artist and beloved elementary art teacher, passed away peacefully at the family home on November 10, 2025. Her joyful spirit, creative talent, and deep compassion touched countless lives both in and out of the classroom.
Janice shared her life with her loving and devoted husband, Gary Williams, who was her steadfast partner in every sense. She is also survived by her cherished daughter, Melanie Wilder (Thomas) of Asheville, and her adored grandchildren, Josiah and Iylah, who brought her endless joy. Janice is also survived by her brothers, Ed Battey (Lynda) and Mike Battey. She was preceded in death by her parents, Robert W. Battey and Mary "Mickey" Battey of Charlotte, whose encouragement and love nurtured her lifelong passion for art and education.
Janice dedicated her career to inspiring young minds through creativity, helping children discover beauty and confidence through artistic expression. Her artwork-vibrant, heartfelt, and full of life-reflected her generous spirit and her belief that imagination has the power to heal and connect. Janice was also quite the story teller. It did not matter the age of her audience she had a story. Her grandchildren, Josiah and Iylah, especially delighted in her stories which started with "Goodnight Moon" and were always filled with endless laughter.
Janice's life was her masterpiece - a canvas filled with kindness, laughter and love. Though her stories have been told and faded over the last several years, her paintbrush set down, her spirit will forever color the hearts of those who knew her.
A gathering of family and friends will be held at the family home on Saturday, December 6, 2025, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at 11900 Aspenwald Drive, Raleigh.
In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made to Transitions LifeCare, 250 Hospice Circle, Raleigh, NC 27607, in gratitude for the compassionate care and comfort they provided.
Published by The News & Observer from Nov. 12 to Nov. 16, 2025.