Janice M. Thomas Obituary (1944 - 2024)

Janice M Suntken Thomas, of Downs, IL, passed away Monday July 22, 2024, at the age of 79. Born on September 2, 1944, in Bloomington, IL she was the daughter of Erwin and Dorothy Nordine Suntken. Janice was a graduate of Gibson City High School in 1962. Janice dedicated 30 years to the Tri-Valley School District as the Treasurer/Bookkeeper/Payroll Specialist and retired in 2007. In her journey through the history of Tri-Valley she made many friends, saw lots of changes and experienced many accomplishments. She saw the district grow in number of employees, the building of the high school and middle school, the addition to the elementary school, closing of Ellsworth Schools and demolition of the old Downs high school and renovations of the old school to the unit office. While working a full-time career and caring for family she continued a part-time job that lasted for 18 years at Kirlin's Hallmark. Janice is survived by her children, Kellie (Larry) Milby, Daniel Thomas, Jodi Fuentes. Surviving grandchildren are Luke Milby, Jacob (Kendall) Milby, Adria (Anthony) Marlett, Evan Fuentes, Maya Fuentes. Also surviving great grandchildren Josiah, Benjamin and (one little blessing on the way) Milby, Aubrie Marlett, Macie Marlett. Bonus grandchild Charlie Tackett, one niece Jamie Gudenrath . She was preceded in death by her parents Erwin and Dorothy Nordine Suntken, Clifford (Butch) Thomas whom she shared a family. Gordon Bane whom she shared many years of family, friends and memories. Jan-E-Mae the best cook and was known for the great meals she prepared for family and friends including the Shaddyville Chicken Fry. She helped establish what is now the Downs Annual 4th of July Fireman’s Breakfast. She was an avid fan of the Boston Red Sox and the Cubs! Jan-E-Mae always counted her blessings and those included her lifelong friends Bev, Kathy, Jane, Barb and Carol, who stuck by during this difficult journey the past several years. She will be missed dearly by family and friends. We want to thank our Rockstar Caregivers Andrea, Kathy, Catherine, Kaela, Megan, Bev and Dorothy, who through their love, dedication and compassion cared for her the past two years and most recently the past eight weeks. An open house to Celebrate her life and 80th Birthday will be held on Saturday Sept 21, 2024, at The Station Saloon in Downs from 2-5 pm. Private inurnment will be at Hopewell Cemetery in Downs IL. The family requested that in lieu of flowers, memorials be made to the Village of Downs Food Pantry, P.O. Box 18, Downs IL 61376.