Janice Marie Lawrence

Janice Marie (Ratliff) Lawrence age 67, passed away Sunday, January 1, 2023, at Ascension All Saints Medical Center Racine, WI. Janice was born in Racine, WI on September 3, 1955, daughter of late Lura Rebecca Black and Earnest Ratliff. Janice was a foster mother & child care provider, she believed it took a village to raise a child and she was willing to play whatever part needed in that village. She was a safe haven for many, providing wise counsel, a confidant, trustworthy and a second mother and rock to many. She never judged, but was always very caring and loving, and had a listening ear no matter what you were going through. Janice worked as a cashier, housekeeper, CNA, and assembler. She enjoyed crafting, sewing, cooking, thrifting, spending time at the beach and anything having to do with family, especially shenanigan outings with her niece Gregina. She was a faithful believer in Christ and spent Sundays attending service whether online or in person. Janice never met a stranger and was loved by everyone and could always be found with a smile on her face. Family and friends would describe her as witty, spunky, selfless, loyal and loving. She adored Tyler Perry plays, gospel music and giving back to others whether it be providing a home cooked meal or volunteering in the church. Janice was a doting mother of 3 daughters, grandmother of 9 and great grandmother of 6 showing pictures of her loved ones to all that would look and listen. She always had a story to tell, she believed that every test left you with a testimony. Janice meant the world to many and will be truly missed by those who loved her dearly. Janice is preceded in death by her mother, father, and son Donte Ratliff. She is survived by her daughters Josanthia Lawrence, Benina (Stacy) Wright, Janica Ratliff, sisters Ernestine (David) Johnson, Mary Pearson, Linda Ratliff, brothers Charles Morris of St Paul, MN and Dearrl Morris, grandchildren Mydesia Lawrence, Tavares Harris II, Jovarion Harris, Austin Hansen, Daylin Price, Jalise Price , Amya Hansen, Ayden Wright, Jayda Ratliff, great grandchildren Ari'Ana, A'Niah, Austin Jr, Tavares III, Jovarion II, and Jayden. A host of nieces, great nieces, nephews and great nephews. Per Janice's wishes there will be no service, she wishes for everyone to remember her how she was in life not in death. "It's okay to smile, I have served the Lord and this is his will. I am at peace and no longer suffering." She continued to preach and pray and provide words of encouragement and positivity until her final days. Her lasting words to remember were; "It could always be worse."

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Janice Marie Lawrence

September 3, 1955 - January 1, 2023