My Aunt Jean Smith Sage of Jackson was a lifelong friend of Jan's and always stayed in touch with her all of their lives.  She has so many good memories of Jan and loved her like a sister.  She will love and miss her every day.

So sorry to hear about Jan. She was always so sweet to visit mom and dad. Dad loved talking genealogy to her and she always brought them fresh corn, etc from the garden. 
So you can make the connection, my grandmother was Emma Ward Clark, sister to Jim. My parents were Helen and Tiny Saunders.
Much love to all of you as you navigate through the next few weeks and months.
Bonnie Saunders Nichols

From Jan’s only surviving sibling, Mrs. Jessie Clarke Scott: As I reflect on the loss of my sister, I wish our world today could know what the families learned growing up in the era of Jan and our family. From living and working on our large farm, to walking to our community school, to attending our community church and always remembering that Sunday was a very special day. Our Daddy and Mama were at home with us, all eleven, as we grew up. With loving care THEY took care of us. Our food was prepared for us by their loving hands using food gathered from their gardens. As we grew, we were taught how to help and that we did. When our work day was over, we could go to bed and feel safe in our home. Sweet peace, the gift of God's love. I thank God for my family. I pray that we shall all be together again in that home not made by hands. August 15, 2023 
Jessie Clarke Scott

Jan started out as my baby sitter and neighbor, but as time went on she became my biggest supporter, my confidant, and my best friend. Jan was there from the day I was born and was by my side through every key event in my life! She was the phone call I always made time for and the sleepovers I couldn’t wait for. We always joked how she was like my grandmother, but truly we chose to be friends. My family says I act like Jan’s sometimes, stubborn and frugal, and I take it as a compliment. At our last visit we held hands and sang “ In The Sweet By and By” I will cherish that memory forever. 
I love my Jan.  
To Tim, Teresa, Tony, and Bill I’m deeply sorry for your loss. I know y’all made her life everything she desired it to be! 


Jan and I have been friends since we both grew up in Cedar Grove, TN.  When she first came to Memphis, we roomed together with other friends.  She was always one of the sweetest people I have ever met.  We shared fun and laughter.  I am so glad that she and Bill had so many years together.  I remember when she was head over hills in love with him.  She was a faithful friend and a faithful Christian. She loved life to the fullest!  She loved her family so much.  Even in her latter days, she spoke to me about how blessed she had been and what a good life she had lived.  As much as she hated leaving her family, she knew she was going to a better place and expected to see all of us again someday.  I will miss her greatly.  My deepest sympathy to all of her family and friends.  May God bless and comfort you in the rough days ahead.  

Jan was our friend and neighbor and a member of our church family for many years. She was such a talented person. Wonderful at growing beautiful flowers and making flower arrangements. And a fantastic cook! But most of all a very kind, fun lady. She will be so missed in her family, her community,and her church.

OBITUARY

Janice Clarke Bailey

February 24, 1937 – August 14, 2023

George A. Smith & Sons Funeral Home

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