Janice Lee Mathesius, 85, of rural Paw Paw, passed away Thursday, February 20, 2025, at her home surrounded by her loving family. She was born October 31, 1939, in Shabbona, the daughter of Harold and Veryl (Smith) Alford. She married Ralph Mathesius on November 8, 1957, in the United Methodist Church in Waterman, IL.
Janice lived in the Waterman area while growing up, graduating from Waterman High School. She spent her married life working on the farm with her husband, being the cook, bookkeeper, and sometimes the right-hand woman. She loved bowling, working in the garden, and her flower beds. She also enjoyed several different kinds of handiwork including crocheting, cross stitching, macrame, and sewing. Her favorite pastime was playing with her grandchildren and great grandchildren. She loved to travel with family and friends. She was a member of the Paw Paw United Methodist Church where she served as church treasurer for many years.
Janice is survived by her husband, Ralph; daughters, Susan (Bill Weirich) Tompkins, Cheryl (Tim) Johnson, and Victoria (Tom) Price; grandchildren, Todd (Sarah) Tompkins, Jill (Chasen) Rockstead, Josh (Brenna) Johnson, and Taylor Johnson; nine great-grandchildren, Scarlett, Lucas, Wesson, Nora, Grant, Lucy, Henry, Owen and Molly; siblings, Tom (Donna) Alford and Kathy Banta; and two nephews.
Janice is preceded in death by her parents; a grandson, Adam Johnson; and a brother-in-law, Tom Banta.
Cremation care has been provided by Torman Funeral Home, Paw Paw. A memorial funeral service will be at 11:30 A.M. Monday, February 24, 2025, at the Paw Paw United Methodist Church, 370 Wiley Avenue, in Paw Paw with Pastor David Hamer officiating. Visitation will be from 10:00 A.M. until the time of the service at the church. Please visit www.TormanFuneralHome.com to sign the online guest book.
