Janice Gordon Ware

From the very beginning, Janice was destined to touch the lives of those around her. Raised in a loving Christian home, she accepted Christ at an early age, anchoring her life in faith at Riverwood Missionary Baptist Church in Houston, Texas. Janice attended Kashmere High School and later pursued higher education at the University of Houston. Her professional journey took her into the field of hotel management, where she worked tirelessly for many years in the greater Houston area. Her talents and determination eventually led her to Insperity, where she dedicated 26 years of service as a Senior Financial Service Specialist. Not only was she a standout in her field, but she also left a legacy by creating processes that are still in use today. Janice’s colleagues and friends held her in the highest regard for her skills, mentorship, and her generous spirit. Janice embraced the roles of wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend with grace and devotion.

Known affectionately as the matriarch of her family after the passing of her beloved mother, Christeen, she stepped into this role naturally, offering guidance, wisdom, and love. Her family cherished her for her unyielding support, honesty, and steadfast presence. Janice had a gift for “telling it like it is.” She didn’t just tell you what you wanted to hear; she told you what you needed to hear. Her advice was trusted and her counsel deeply valued by all who knew her. In her later years, Janice found profound joy in spending time with her granddaughter, Leighton Gordon, lovingly known as “Lei Lei.” Their bond was a precious gift that brought light into Janice’s life as she shared love, laughter, and cherished memories with her “sweetest gift.” On Monday, December 9, 2024, God called Janice home to her eternal rest.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Christeen Gordon Hall and Leon Gordon, as well as her siblings, Leon Gordon Sr. and Elizabeth Jacobs.

Janice leaves behind a family who will honor her memory and carry her love in their hearts: her devoted husband, Joseph Ware; her children, Christopher Gordon, Brandon Gordon, and Chantelle Gordon; and her stepchildren, Clifton, Patrick, J.J., Ivan Ray, and Alicia. She was the proud grandmother of Gillian, Leighton, Clifton Jr., Josiah, Patrice, and the twins (Justice & Journey). She is also survived by her siblings, Maudina, Regina, Billy, and her beloved niece Sabrina, joins in heaven her siblings who passed before her, Elizabeth and Leon.

Janice’s legacy is one of love, faith, and resilience. Her beautiful spirit, her “tell-it-like-it-is” attitude, and the countless lives she touched will be remembered by all who were fortunate enough to know her. Her presence will be deeply missed, but her impact will remain, a testament to a life lived fully, with purpose and heart. Rest in peace, Janice. You will forever be in our hearts.

A visitation for Janice will be held Saturday, December 21, 2024 from 2:30 PM to 3:30 PM at Brookside Funeral Home, 13747 Eastex Freeway, Houston, TX 77039, followed by a funeral from 3:30 PM to 4:30 PM.