Janice S James

Janice James, age 83, passed away on November 8, 2026, in Siloam Springs, Arkansas, leaving behind a lifetime of memories and a family who will forever cherish her.

Born May 11, 1943, to the late Ethel (Savage) Quillin and James Ira Robinson, Janice moved to Southeast Missouri at a young age and graduated from Poplar Bluff High School in 1961. She later settled in Wardell, where she met the love of her life, Jerry James, while working in her uncle’s store. They married on March 26, 1963, and shared 36 years of marriage.

Janice was a devoted Christian and longtime member of the Nazarene Church in Wardell, where she served as church treasurer for many years and sang in the choir. Many fondly remember her standing beside Jerry as he played the piano on Sunday mornings. Her faith remained a guiding light throughout her life.

A hardworking woman, Janice spent many years working at Plastenes and several years as a cook for North Pemiscot Schools before retiring. She found joy in life’s simple pleasures: tending to her flowers and garden, feeding the birds, and, most importantly, spending time with family. A wonderful cook, she made her home the heart of countless family gatherings. Christmas was her favorite time of year, and no holiday was complete without Christmas Eve at Memaw’s house, filled with food, games, laughter, and cherished memories.

Known lovingly as Memaw, she adored her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Her door was always open, and she was always ready with a helping hand. She was a woman of remarkable strength who endured more loss than anyone should have to bear, yet continued to be a source of love, encouragement, and comfort to those around her.

Janice was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Jerry James; her children, Kimberly James, William James, and Kelly James-McHugh; her stepson, Jerry James Jr.; her mother, Ethel (Savage) Quillin; and her sister, Judy (Robinson) James.

She is survived by her brothers, James Quillin and William (Faye) Quillin; seven grandchildren, Erik Camp, Jonathon Camp, Charity James, Michael (Samantha) James, Sierra (Ray Scott) McHugh, Brianna (Mason) Keith, and Macy James; and seven great-grandchildren, Korbin Camp, Jacy Ash, Rexlee James, Jillian James, Jesse James, Paxton Mitchell, and Kallie Scott, along with numerous extended family members and friends.

Though Janice endured many losses and is now reunited with those who went before her, her love and legacy will live on through the generations she leaves behind. Her faith, strength, family traditions, and love will never be forgotten.

She may be gone from our sight, but she will forever have a place in our hearts. May she rest peacefully, reunited with the loved ones who have been waiting to welcome her home.

A Memorial Service will be held at a later date to be announced.

Backstrom-Pyeatte Funeral Home of Siloam Springs is honored and privileged to be handling all final arrangements.