Janice Elaine Whited Reese, 73, born on July 3, 1952, peacefully transitioned into her eternal home Monday, September 29, 2025, while under hospice care in Vidalia, Georgia. A lifelong resident of the Matthews-Wrens-Gibson area, she was proud to be a graduate of Wrens High School.
Throughout her life, Janice embraced various local jobs, though her most cherished role was undoubtedly as a homemaker. Known for her vibrant personality, Janice was sassy, kind, loving, and caring. She was independent and strong-willed, with an undeniable talent for socializing—always a "talker," she could engage anyone in conversation. Janice was dedicated to her faith, having attended Mt. Moriah during her younger years before participating in Second Chance Independent Church and most recently, Mitchell Full Gospel Church.
Janice found joy in numerous hobbies and interests including playing rummy and other card games, fishing, crocheting, and quilting. Cooking and grilling were among her passions, and she loved hosting cookouts with her family. She was also an avid fan of television, particularly enjoying the Game Show network and her favorite show, Chicago Fire. Her social spirit was further illustrated by countless visits to Huddle House, where she met her future husband, Dennis. The couple married and moved to Gibson in 2016, embarking on a new chapter together.
Janice leaves behind her beloved husband, Dennis Wayne Reese, and her sons and their spouses, Ricky Williams (Tommy) and Kevin Woods (Mia). She was a devoted grandmother to Christian Williams, Kaylee Woods, Kye Woods, and Raley Woods. She also leaves behind extended family and friends who cherished her warmth and vibrant spirit.
Janice was preceded in death by her children, Crystal Williams and Wesley Williams; her parents, Dorothy "Gladys" Stewart Whited and Thomas E. Whited; and her sisters, Paula Jean Whited and Wanda W. Rabun.
The family will receive friends Friday, October 3, 2025, from 12:30 PM to 2:00 PM at James Funeral Home. The funeral service officiated by Rev. Kyle Downs and Rev. Robbie Passmore will follow at 2:00 PM, with interment at Mt. Moriah UMC Cemetery in Matthews. Honored to be pallbearers include Chase Braswell, Daniel Franklin, Charles Godfrey, Gunnar Harris, Trent Maruca and Steven Rabun.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions to assist in funeral costs may be made directly to James Funeral Home, PO Box 588, Wrens GA 30833 or on their website for Janice Reese -- https://www.jamesfhwrens.com/resources/make-a-payment.
Janice Elaine Whited Reese's life was marked by her caring spirit, love for her family, and the joy she brought to those around her. Her memory will forever live on in the hearts of her loved ones.
James Funeral Home
James Funeral Home
Mt. Moriah UMC Cemetery
Visits: 511
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the
Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
Service map data © OpenStreetMap contributors