Janice A. Barnthouse, age 84, resident of Plymouth, Ohio passed away on Tuesday, December 31, 2024 at Tower Health in Pottstown, Pennsylvania. She was born on September 19, 1940 in Shelby, Ohio to the late Ivan and Ruth (Donnenwirth) Bowman.
A 1959 graduate of Plymouth High School, Janice went on to obtain her Bachelors Degree from Ashland College. While in college, Janice began her teaching career at Plymouth schools. She was an elementary school teacher, the majority of that time spent teaching third grade, at Shelby City Schools and retired after 37 years in education.
Janice was a longtime member of First Lutheran Church in Plymouth where she taught Sunday School. She was also a member and held positions within the Fond Memories Doll Club; Plymouth Historical Society and Museum for over 20 years as a trustee and assisted with the Elf village and gift shop; and Plymouth Lions Club, where she held the title of secretary for many years.
On October 4, 1962 Janice married her high school sweetheart, Donald Barnthouse and they shared 59 wonderful years of marriage before his passing in 2022. Janice and Don shared a passion of traveling to new places and trying new restaurants. They also enjoyed spending time with family at Lakeside and attending shows and concerts.
In her spare time, Janice was fond of gardening and canning, and collecting dolls, teddy bears and quilts. She never turned down an opportunity to go shopping and loved all things sweet, especially chocolate.
Janice is survived by her children, Kris (Ruby) Barnthouse of Pottstown, PA and Holly (Dan) Workman of Powell, OH; grandchildren, Sam, Maddie and Sydney; sisters-in-law, Blanche Bowman and Barb Hamman; and many nieces and nephews.
In addition to her parents and husband, Janice was preceded in death by her brother, John Bowman; and sister, Joyce (Harold) Craig.
Family and friends may visit at the Secor Funeral Home in Plymouth on Thursday, January 9, 2025 from 10:30 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. Janice’s funeral service will begin at 12:00 p.m. with Pastor Jeremy Lambert officiating. Burial will follow at Greenlawn Cemetery in Plymouth. Memorial contributions can be made to Plymouth Lions Club or Plymouth Historical Society. Online condolences can be left for Janice’s family by visiting www.secorfuneralhomes.com.
Condolences
Barbara J. Eakins - Jan 9, 2025
I knew Janice when I taught at Dowds School. She was always upbeat and friendly. I liked her a lot. I know she and Gail Adams worked closely together with their third grade classes and did a lot of fun projects devoted to what they had been studying. Sincere sympathy to Janice's family.
Kathy - Jan 9, 2025
I am so sorry for the loss of your mom and grandma. I have wonderful memories of her as my Sunday School teacher, and will never forget her kindness to me or my family. Most recently I loved taking my boys to Elf Village and peeking to see her help them, then get a hug and catch up and she’d ask all about them. She was always caring and interested in others- and I must say that she is also one I remember being so kind to aunt Debbie- things you always appreciate. Will miss seeing her when home but I know she is in God’s hands, to whom she was so faithful. Love to all.
Doug and Jean - Jan 9, 2025
We are truly sorry for the loss of Janice. We appreciated her kindness and service to the community- school, church, and museum. She is one of the longest serving museum trustees often volunteering to keep the museum open during the week and always willing to help. Our sympathies are with you all. We will remember her fondly.
Gary Ross - Jan 9, 2025
Don and Janice’s children….i pray you will sense the peace that passes our understanding….i was Ruth and Ivan’s next door neighbor…my parents were Bill and Lucille Ross. God bless you
Jan Gose - Jan 8, 2025
Had so much fun with Jan in doll club! She will be missed by all of us,
Patrice Reiche - Jan 7, 2025
I never had the pleasure of meeting Janice, but I continue to have the blessing of knowing the Kris Barnthouse family, so I know their mom, mother-in-law, and grandmother must have been something incredibly special. Especially given she shared her talents with so many children in both the school system and in Sunday school. Blessings and prayers to all family and friends who mourn the loss of such an incredible woman.
Mindy Utz - Jan 6, 2025
My deepest condolences.
Mary - Jan 6, 2025
Janice was a very gifted teacher. Our son, Greg, adored her. She loved her job and the children in her classroom. Prayers for her family. May God comfort you.
Paul - Jan 6, 2025
Kris, Holly and families, Joyce and I are so sorry to hear of your Mom’s passing. Your parents were such a positive influence to your childhood community. We can never thank them enough for all they did for us personally, the Plymouth Schools and all the organizations they served with a smile. Much love to your families. Paul and Joyce Gase
Kenneth and Paula - Jan 6, 2025
Dear Kris, Holly and family, We send our sincere condolences. We’ve been blessed over the years to spend time with Janice at the Plymouth Area Historical Society where she volunteered much time and talent. Her smile and our conversations will surely be missed at our First Lutheran Church on Sunday mornings. May knowing others care so deeply bring you comfort and peace. Sincerely, Ken and Paula Sturgill
Helen Seaman-Niver - Jan 6, 2025
To the family, I am sorry to learn of Janice passing. She was a good classmate and when I was in Plymouth I always tried to connect with her. Always loved to talk with her and catch up with the news.
Jari McKinney Amburgey - Jan 5, 2025
Kris & Family, I am sorry for your loss. Your mom was such a a kind lady. I've known her all my life through Church. Your family will be in my thoughts and prayers in the days ahead.
Paul and Beth - Jan 5, 2025
Kris, Holly ,and families; our sincere condolences on the loss of your mother and grandmother. Both Don and Jan were wonderful people. We always enjoyed it when we happened to run onto them. Jan will be greatly missed by all who knew her.
Steve Phillips - Jan 5, 2025
Mrs. Barnthouse played a huge roll in my childhood - leading me through years of Sunday School. She was so kind and gentle- would listen to all of our stories. So sorry for this loss.
