Janice C. Atwell

Janice C. Atwell, a cherished presence in the lives of her family and friends, passed away peacefully on March 4, 2026, in her hometown of Dothan, Alabama. Born on October 31, 1950, Janice lived a life defined by her caring nature, her devotion to family, and her spirited personality.

Janice was the beloved daughter of the late Walter Coates and Lillie Douglas Coates. She was also preceded in death by her brothers, James Lane and William F. “Leonard” Lane, and her sister, Nellie Garrett.

Her greatest joy in life was her family, who loved her deeply as both “Mom” and “Mimi.” She leaves behind her children, Teresa Williams, Tracy Dickey, Steven Atwell (Jessica), and Shane Atwell; her grandchildren, Shannelle Blankenship (Alex), Shea Strickland (Cody), Wesley Pybus (Kendra), Hunter Pybus (Rose Freeman), Joah Atwell (Peyton Hodge), Jaxon Atwell, Adaline Atwell, and Ally Mae Atwell; several great-grandchildren, and her sister, Eva Loyless.

Janice was truly the heart of her family. Known as the best babysitter ever, she loved spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, always welcoming them with open arms and a loving heart. Her family was her greatest blessing, and she never missed a chance to support them, whether it was attending ball games, sharing meals together, or simply enjoying time together.

Janice was a proud member of the Elks Lodge, where she loved spending time with friends, dancing, bowling, and enjoying the fellowship. She also enjoyed relaxing by the pool at the Elks, often just dipping her feet in the water and soaking in the good company around her.

She had a special gift in the kitchen and was well known for her delicious homemade cooking. Her biscuits were considered world-class by those who loved her, and her desserts were legendary. Family gatherings were made even sweeter with her cheesecake, pound cake, peanut butter cake, and colorful rainbow cakes.

Janice also enjoyed the simple pleasures in life. She loved going out to lunch with friends, visiting the beauty shop, and proudly texting her children afterward to show off her freshly styled hair. She and her brother James shared many fond memories enjoying meals together at local favorites like Jacks and The Wiener Wagon.

Her faith was an important part of her life, and she often expressed her gratitude with the words, “What a beautiful day the Lord has made.” Anyone who knew Janice knew her warm greeting when answering the phone — a cheerful “Hey Baby.” She was caring, loving, strong-willed, and sometimes a little stubborn and argumentative, but always full of heart and devotion to those she loved.

Funeral services to honor and celebrate the life of Janice C. Atwell will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, March 8, 2026, at Ward Wilson Funeral Home with Reverend Dennis Singletary officiating. Janice will be laid to rest at Memory Hill Cemetery following the service. Friends and family are invited to gather from 1:00 p.m. until the time of service.

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