Janice Yvonne Blount

The book of life closed for Sister Janice Yvonne Henderson Blount our beloved mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend. She slipped into eternal rest on Friday, November 21, 2025. She was born on October 21, 1947, in Jacksonville, Florida. She was the youngest daughter of the late James Randolph and the late Johnnie Belle Henderson. Following the death of her mother, when she was only 5 years old, Janice would be raised by her stepmother, the late Mrs. Viney Lee Henderson, who was truly a kind, gentle and classy lady. The Henderson family was deeply rooted in African Methodism, and at an early age, Janice accepted Jesus Christ as her Lord and Savior and became a member of Greater New Hope AME Church for over six decades.

Janice grew up with strong Christian beliefs, heritage and values with her father being a respected Superintendent of Sunday School at Greater New Hope AME Church, for over 30 years, he poured both faith and discipline into his children. Janice was the youngest of five siblings; Henrietta Johnson, Annie Laura Winters, Hattie Mae DeVoux, and Estella Dickerson, all of whom transitioned before her. Janice was further blessed with an adopted sister Alice Smith, whose presence enriched her life and helped shape the loving, close-knit sisterhood that has lasted through her final days.

Janice’s remarkable musical journey began at the age of seven, when her father honored her mother’s wish that one of their daughters learn to play the piano. Determined to keep that promise, he enrolled Janice in lessons and later arranged for her to receive personal training from the esteemed H. Alvin Green, celebrated director of music at Edward Waters College. Under his guidance, Janice not only mastered the piano but also learned to operate and play the church organ while still in grade school. By the time she was a young girl, she was already serving the church with her gifts of music every Sunday as church organist.

Professionally, Janice spent most of her career in the banking industry. Before retiring, she was known for her warm spirit and meticulous attention to detail, qualities she displayed in her home, her church, and her community.

Her dedication, love and support for Greater New Hope AME Church was unwavering. She diligently served on several church ministries and auxiliaries. Janice was an active member of the Steward Board serving as Pro-tem, the Rosa Johnson Women's Missionary Society, YPD Director and Church Treasurer. She was a dependable presence at every stage of the church’s life. Her music lifted spirits and carried the congregation through generations. Her service stands as a living thread in the history of Greater New Hope AME Church, where her father’s legacy is still remembered and where Janice’s own contributions remain woven into its foundation.

Janice was united in marriage to Retired U.S. Army Sergeant First Class Richard Allen Blount, until his death in 2016. Together, they enjoyed being doggy parents to their lovable Maltese “Frisky”.

Janice leaves a legacy rooted in love, faith, music, kindness, and quiet strength. She leaves loving memories for devoted children, Tonya Jenkins Blanks (Tony Blanks) and Retired Army Staff Sergeant First Class Ottis J. Jenkins Jr. (Michelle Jenkins). She was immensely proud of her grandchildren, Ottis Jenkins Jr. III (Kindra), Katelyn Jenkins Pomper (Devon Pomper), Bronson Blanks, Druex Kelly, and Kiki Jenkins. She also cherished her great-grandchildren, Neveah Jenkins and Landon Jenkins.

Her memory will also be held by her beloved sister Alice Smith, a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family, dear friend Evelyn Morris and the Greater New Hope Church Family, along with countless friends who were touched by her gentle humor, her quiet wisdom, and the steadfast presence she carried with her everywhere she went. Janice lived a life anchored in service, humility, and devotion. Her music will echo in our hearts, her love will carry us forward, and her legacy will forever shine in the lives she touched.

Sarah L. Carter's Funeral Home Northside is serving the Family.

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