Janice M. Edwards, 84, of Sycamore, IL. died on January 1, 2025 at OSF St. Anthony's Medical Center in Rockford.

She was born on January 11, 1940 in LaSalle, IL to Daniel and Rose (Ryba) Marenda.  She married Gerald V. Edwards on November 6th 2014.

Janice received her Bachelor's Degree in Elementary Education from Illinois State University.  Masters degree in Education from University of Illinois Chicago. She stopped short of getting her doctorate but had her Master +45 hours.  She was also a Certified Tour Guide.

She taught for 30+ years as an Elementary school teacher. During that time she was awarded the honor of being a Fulbright Scholar. This meant she taught in South Hampton England for a year. Upon her retirement from the Roselle school district she took a teaching position in Maracaibo Venezuela for three years. After returning stateside she began her career as a tour guide for Mayflower tours. She did this for 17 years traveling all over the US.

Janice was active in the Silver Sneakers Exercise Program, Pedaling for Parkinson's and Rock City Boxing for Parkinson's. She was a proud owner of a campsite at Sugar Shores in Durand Illinois for over 20 years. Her time there included fishing, swimming, "Party Central" but was highlighted by being the chairman for 12 years of the Fall Silent Auction.

She enjoyed scrapbooking, jigsaw pictorial puzzles, playing slots and playing card games.

Survivors include her husband Gerald Edwards of Sycamore, IL. Daughter Beth Dix of Sycamore ( Collin of Crystal Lake, Cody of Sycamore, Kassie of Sycamore and Karlene of Sycamore). Son Scott Pawlak, wife Robynn of Elburn IL(Kaitlynn, Danny, Aidan, Noah and Luke). Sister Joan DelMedico husband Tony of Niles IL. Brother Paul Marenda wife Joela of Mesa Arizona.

She was preceded in death by her father Daniel Marenda, mother Rose Marenda and brother Jim Marenda.

Her visitation will be on Wednesday, January 8th from 5:00-8:00 PM at the Butala Funeral Home in Sycamore, IL. and from 10:00 AM-11:00 AM on Thursday, January 9th at the Church of St. Mary, 244 Waterman St. in Sycamore.   Her funeral mass will begin at 11:00 AM at the Church.

A luncheon will follow the funeral mass at the Church Parish Activity Center.

Memorials can be made to the Parkinson's Association (www.Parkinson.org)  in care of the Butala Funeral Home, 1405 DeKalb Ave., Sycamore, IL 60178

To sign the online guest book, go to http://www.butalafuneralhomes.com