Janice Allen

Janice Lee Allen, affectionately known as “Jan,” age 87, of Florida, passed away on Sunday, April 12, 2026, at Providence Living at Maitland.

Jan was born on November 17, 1938, in Mt. Gilead, North Carolina, to the late James Fentress Allen and Mae Webb Allen. She graduated as valedictorian from Mt. Gilead High School in 1957 and went on to attend Wake Forest University, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts degree, graduating cum laude.

Jan devoted her life to education. She began her career teaching high school French in North Carolina before relocating to Florida, where she continued teaching French at the high school level. She later earned a Master’s degree in Humanities and joined Seminole State College, where she taught humanities and eventually served as Humanities Chair until her retirement in 1995.

A woman of many talents and passions, Jan was an accomplished seamstress and an avid traveler. She rarely traveled without her camera, capturing beautiful moments and scenes along the way. She was a devoted member of First Baptist Church of Mt. Gilead and Sanlando United Methodist Church in Florida.

Jan cherished her family and friendships and was known for her warm hospitality. She especially enjoyed hosting gatherings at her lake house in North Carolina and her home in Florida.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her beloved family members. She is survived by her best friend, Frankie Smith, as well as many cousins and dear friends who will miss her greatly.

A celebration of life service will be held at First Baptist Church in Mt.Gilead, North Carolina, on May 6, at 11:00 a.m. Visitation will follow in the church social hall. A graveside service and burial of her ashes will take place at Sharon Cemetery. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to First Baptist Church, P.O. Box 207, Mt. Gilead, NC 27306. 

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