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BORN
1951
DIED
2025
Janice Smith Obituary
February 13, 1951 - January 17, 2025
Sacramento, California - Janice Nancy Smith, aged 73, passed away on January 17, 2025, in Sacramento, CA. Born on February 13, 1951, Janice's vibrant spirit and warm heart touched all who knew her.
Janice was renowned for her exceptional culinary skills, a passion for travel, her sharp wit, and her talent in knitting. She dedicated her life to being an extraordinary wife, mother, Bubbie and friend. Her humor, often compared to that of a top comedian, and her inclusive nature made every gathering memorable.
Janice was a proud alumna of John Cabrillo Elementary and CK McClatchy High School, maintaining fond friendships she created while there throughout her life.
She leaves behind a loving family: her husband, Bob Smith; her daughters, Rachel Smith and Erin Doering; son-in-law, Sean Doering; grandsons, James and Johnny Doering; and her brothers, Howard and Harlan Karnofsky. She was preceded in death by her parents, Abraham "Sonny" and Betty Karnofsky.
Her life will be honored at a funeral service at Home of Peace on Wednesday, January 22 at 1:00 p.m., followed by a celebration of life at Temple B'nai Israel. In lieu of flowers, contributions in memory of Janice can be made to the Go2 for Lung Cancer Association, who's mission is to increase survival by improving the lives of those at-risk, diagnosed and living with lung cancer. A team in Janice's honor will be running a 5k race on April 5 in Land Park; you can donate directly to her team at the following link: https://events.go2.org/index.cfm?fuseaction=donorDrive.team&teamID=5015.
Janice's legacy of love, laughter, and kindness will forever be cherished and remembered by all who were fortunate enough to know her.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Janice Smith
Sponsored by Sacbee.com.
5 Entries
Ron Stewart
February 17, 2025
Margie and I are so sorry for your loss
Bob, you and Jan occupy a lot of our fondest memories. We wish you and your family our sincere condolences.
Judy Bowling
January 23, 2025
Bob and family, I was shocked when I read on Facebook that Jan had passed away, My thoughts and prayers are with you all at this very difficult time.
Your cousin from Maquoketa!
Karen McMaster
January 22, 2025
I was so saddened to hear that Janice had lung cancer. I went through high school with her. I am so glad you shared what a great sense of humor she had. We just had high school gathering in 2022 and she was such a hoot! I moved out of Sacramento in '75 so the only times I got to see her was at reunions and she was always her same friendly, funny self. My sincere condolences to all of her family. I bet she was a wonderful mother and grandmother! I'm sure you have great memories and hope you will continue to laugh remembering her clever quips.
Judy Farina
January 21, 2025
Bob, Rachel, and Erin,
I am so sorry to hear that Jan passed. She was bigger than life, exuded joy, had an infectious laugh, and was always so kind and generous. I will forever cherish my memories of her. From middle school soccer to running into her at a store, she brought joy. Thank you for sharing her with all of us!
Love, Judy
Tom & Vicki, Ruth, Connie, Sherry (The Church Family)
January 21, 2025
Jan effervesced joy when walking into a room. In life she has left a wake of laughter. Jan was unique and special, and all of us whose life she has touched will always hold her memory in special part of our hearts where she will live on. Thank you Jan for making our world a happier place to live.
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