CASWELL BEACH — Janice Carol Schaffran, 75, unexpectedly passed away Saturday morning, May 13, 2017.
She is survived by her devoted husband, Bob; three children, Craig (Yuhi), Karen and Meredith (Josh); grandkids, Ella, Evie, Chloe, Kai and Cole; brother, Frank; and numerous cousins, nieces, nephews and extended family members.
Born in Portsmouth, Va., Janice was a retired school teacher. She was also a gifted musician, whether on the piano, guitar, or simply singing. Janice could play any instrument and sing harmonies to any song in an instant.
Janice was simply magnetic. Her smile warm and welcoming, her laugh loud and inviting, her heart open and loyal. She was beautiful inside as she was outside. Everyone who met her fell in love with her.
There truly was no more compassionate, empathetic, or loving woman. And her love extended beyond her immense network of family and friends. She believed every living thing deserved dignity and respect — from the homeless people she helped clothe to the stray dogs and cats she brought into our home and cared for at local shelters.
She was, in a word, remarkable.
She never wanted a sad funeral; rather, she wanted a celebration of her life with music, laughter and love. So celebrate we will. We will hold a memorial service at 5 p.m., Saturday, June 17, at the Arboretum Community Center, 122 Flowering Bridge Path, Caswell Beach, with a party to follow complete with lively music, good food and lots of laughter; just the way she would have wanted.
In lieu of flowers, we ask that contributions be made in memory of Janice to one of her favorite local animal shelters: Paws Place Dog Rescue, P.O. Box 67, Winnabow, NC 28479.
Online condolences may be made at peacocknewnamwhite.com.
