WILMINGTON — It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Janis Joye Jackson, a beloved soul whose life was a testament to love, compassion, and inspiration. Born on September 10, 1958, in Washington D.C., Janis lived a rich and fulfilling life until her peaceful passing at the age of 67 on May 13, 2026, in Wilmington, NC.
Janis devoted herself to helping others throughout her career as a Medical Assistant in healthcare. Her empathetic nature and genuine concern for those around her made her a beacon of hope and kindness. She truly touched everyone she met with her warm smile and boundless generosity.
Janis loved deeply and selflessly, always putting her family and others before herself. She was the nicest of the nice, ensuring that each person in her life knew they were cherished. Her thoughtful ways extended beyond her family circle, revealing a woman who “made life pretty” wherever she went.
An ardent lover of arts and crafts, Janis found joy in painting on anything she could get her hands on, including rocks, wood, and canvas. She often carried her beautifully painted stones, gifting them spontaneously to uplift those experiencing tough times. These small acts of kindness exemplified her compassionate spirit.
In her love for nature, Janis found peace and adventure. From serene beaches to majestic mountains, she explored the world’s beauty through camping, hiking waterfalls, and seeking shells and stones. She never shied away from a storm with her beloved Jeff to accompany her. Flowers and gems also filled her life with wonder, and music was her comfort, with the sweet strum of her guitar.
Janis’s Christian faith was the cornerstone of her being. Having lived in Korea while a young Army-wife in the 70’s, she shared the gospel of Jesus with profound grace, even teaching English to local businesspeople with kindness and patience.
Her role as a loving mother and wife enriched her life immensely. Janis was dedicated to involving herself in her children’s and grandchildren’s lives, attending every event and celebrating each milestone, always present with unwavering support and love.
She is preceded in death by her parents, Fred Thomas Joye and Virginia Lightfoot Joye; her beloved son Adam Wesley Ellison, II; her brother Fred “Tommy” Joye, Jr.; and her favorite dog, Shyanne, who was waiting for her on the other side of the rainbow bridge. What a glorious reunion for all!
Left to cherish her memory are her devoted and supporting husband, Jeff Jackson; her cherished daughter, Tina Ellison Williamson, and husband Jason; a special stepson, Jeff Jackson, Jr.; stepdaughter, Heather Jackson Franks and husband Jeffery; her loving sister, Jackie Hemp, and husband Richard; her forever sister-in-love, Amy Tinney; and special cousin, Patty Keatley. Her legacy lives on through her adored grandchildren—Isabella LeGrand, Nash Ellison, Sloane Ellison, Destiny Jackson, Charlemagne Franks, and Eliana Franks—and her treasured cat, Savannah. In support of the family above, there are many cherished cousins, family and friends, including but certainly not limited to: Becky and Mack Bell, Linda and Joey Williamson, Cindy Hogan, Cheryl Hammons, and Uncle Wayne and Aunt Sylvia Joye.
