Janice T. Barker, beloved mother, grandmother and great-grandmother passed away peacefully on July 23, 2025 surrounded by her loved ones. She was the heart and soul of her family, a woman of deep faith in God, comforting meals, endless strength, and a love that will live on in all of us. Born in Allentown on June 14, 1935 to the late Abraham Joseph Barber and Minnie (Abraham) Barber, Janice proudly carried her Syrian heritage throughout her life, especially through the incredible meals she lovingly prepared, that brought us all together. Her Kitchen was always filled with Arabic cooking, and no birthday was without her famous chocolate cake - a treasured tradition for every member of the family.
She was predeceased by her loving husband John A Barker, with whom she shared a lifetime of love and devotion. She carried the memory of her father, mother, and her son Michael Barker, who left this world in 2002, in her heart always, Her role as a caregiver was both a calling and an act of deep love, one she fulfilled with strength and faith. Janice's legacy continues through her loving sons Patrick Barker, Thomas A Barker and his wife Jama, James J Barker, and her dear brother Kenneth Barber and his wife Theresa "Sister."
Janice was blessed with eight grandchildren and two great grandchildren who affectionately called her "Sit." She taught each of her grandchildren to swim, and how to face life with humor, heart and honesty. She had a huge sweet tooth and an even bigger heart. Her presence in their lives was a constant source of joy and guidance, and her memory will be cherished in their hearts forever. Her home was a place of comfort and laughter. She wasn't afraid to speak her mind, her honesty was refreshing, her spunk and humor unforgettable, and her love - immeasurable.She gave endlessly of herself, never asking for anything in return. And whenever someone told her "I love you" she would always say "love you more" - a simple phrase that captured who she was -giving, selfless, and endlessly loving. Her legacy is one of strength and unconditional love. She will be missed more than words can say, but her spirit lives on in the memories we hold, the recipes we share, and the love we continue to give just as she taught us.
Services: A funeral service will be held at 10:30 AM on Saturday July 26, 2025 at Cantelmi Long Funeral Home, 500 Linden Street Bethlehem, PA 18018, where a viewing will be held from 9:30 AM until the time of the service. Her burial will be at Laurel Cemetery in Whitehall. A memory tribute may be placed at www.cantelmifuneralhome.com.
Contributions: In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Janice's name to the
American Cancer Society,
[email protected]
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Published by WFMZ-TV 69 News on Oct. 1, 2025.