Janice Marie Ward Collins went home to her Lord and Savior at the age of 85, on April 28, 2024, surrounded by her loving family. She was born to Homer and Candis Jenkins Ward on December 29, 1938 in Alabama. She grew up in Marianna, Fl and later moved to Wauchula, Fl where she graduated high school and met the love of her life, Jim, in 1956. Janice and Jim married on February 17, 1957 and celebrated 65 years of marriage before his passing in 2021.

Janice was a devoted Pastor's wife for 58 years, a loving mother to her two girls, and a proud Nan to her five grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. Her title as "Nan" extended much further than just to her own grandchildren. Over the years and through her loving and nurturing spirit, she became "Nan" to many children whose lives she touched throughout her ministry in the church. Janice was well-known for her love for cooking and baking. Everyone knew that they were welcome for Sunday dinners at Nan's house and there was always more than enough.

Janice was a faithful servant in the church always visiting with families in need providing love and comfort. Her willingness to work and desire to serve the lord meant that she held many jobs through their time in ministry. She had a servant's heart and was happy to teach Sunday school or work in the office but she wasn't afraid of hardwork and was willing to fill any job within the church. Janice was the embodiment of Proverbs 31-10. "Who can find a virtuous woman? For her price is far above rubies."

Janice is survived by her daughters Cheryl and husband, Danny Mills of Ft. Ogden and Melissa and her husband Romeo Carrano of Port Charlotte. She is also survived by her five grandchildren Jason (Jordan) Mills; Jarren Mills; Dakota Goodson; Marissa (David) Pitts; and Bailee (Shane) Wilson. Five great-grandchildren; Kinslynn Pitts; Maddox Pappas; Cohen Wilson; Kade Pitts; and Lily Mills, arriving in August. Two bonus grandchildren; Randy Land and Jason Land. She is also survived by her bestest friend, Lorene Griffin.

She is preceded in death by her loving husband, Jimmie L. Collins; her parents, Homer and Candis Ward; and her sister, Nona Martin.

A visitation will be held at 12pm followed by the going home celebration at 1pm with interment at Joshua Creek Cemetery, Saturday, May 4, 2024 at the Nocatee Church of God, 4870 SW HWY 17 Arcadia, Fl 34266.

Online condolences can be made at www.pongerkaysgrady.com

Ponger-Kays-Grady Funeral Homes & Cremation Services have been entrusted with the arrangements.