Janice Deloris Launius passed peacefully into the arms of her Lord and Savior on Wednesday, August 12, 2026, surrounded by her loving family. She was born December 17, 1941 to Leo Albert McNair and Mary Gertrude Davidson McNair of Carthage, MS. She was a beloved daughter, sister, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, aunt, and friend whose greatest joy was the family she loved so dearly.

Janice adored her family and loved nothing more than cooking and baking for them. She was known for her wonderful baking, and her family will always remember some of her specialties, including pineapple upside-down cake, homemade Reese’s peanut butter cups, and her famous homemade cream cheese frosting. The love she put into preparing food for those around her was one of the many ways she showed how much she cared.

Janice also had a deep love for gardening. She could spend hours tending to her flowerbeds and had an amazing ability to identify almost any flower or tree simply by sight. Her garden was a reflection of the patience, beauty, and care she brought to everything she did.

She enjoyed going to the casino with her late husband, Leroy, and with her family. Those who accompanied her knew they had better keep up because Janice was a fast walker! No matter where she was going, she walked with purpose, and anyone who walked too slowly might find themselves trying to catch up.

Janice was a kindhearted woman who looked after her neighbors and friends. Whether she was preparing a meal for someone in need or taking the time to talk with them about the Lord, she was always willing to give of herself.

Her faith was an important part of her life. Janice was a member of Van Winkle United Methodist Church and, after her children were born, became a member of Trinity United Methodist Church. She also enjoyed attending Country Woods Baptist Church with her daughter, Sheryl. Her love for the Lord and desire to share her faith were evident in the way she cared for others.

To her grandchildren, Janice was affectionately known as “Momo,” and she carried the special nickname “Mommy Doll.” These names reflected the love, comfort, and special place she held in the hearts of her family.

Janice was preceded in death by her parents; her beloved husband, Leroy Launius; her siblings, Pat Meskimen and Jerry McNair; and her son-in-law, Mario Elfeki.

She leaves behind her two devoted daughters, Sonia Elfeki and Sheryl Boykin; her grandchildren, Amanda Harrell (Bo) and Mario Elfeki; and her great-grandchildren, Hayden Harrell and Aaliyah Harrell.

She is also survived by her brothers, Will “Bud” McNair (Jeanette) and Harley McNair (Lorraine); and her beloved “sister-in-love,” Nonny Sterns.

Janice leaves behind a host of nieces, including Rhonda Davin, Dianne McNair Moore, Mary Keller, Alissa Prell, Nikki Applewhite, Donna Ausborn, Katharine Hankins, and Danielle Rajeski; and nephews, Harlan Williamson, William Boykin, Craig McNair, Scott McNair, Mike McNair, and Brian McNair.

She will also be lovingly remembered by her lifelong friend, Christine Miller, and by those who became like daughters to her, Jennifer Crow, Arlene Akers, and Janet Keith.

Janice's life was filled with faith, family, laughter, love, and service to others. She leaves behind countless memories—from the meals and desserts she lovingly prepared, to her beautiful gardens, her quick footsteps, her casino adventures, and the many conversations she shared about the Lord. Her love will continue to live on through the generations of family and friends she leaves behind.

Though her family will miss her dearly, they can find comfort knowing that Janice is now at peace and has been welcomed into the arms of her Lord and Savior.

Services will be at Chancellor Funeral Home – Byram

Visitation: Saturday, August 22, 202612:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m.

Funeral Service: 2:00 p.m.

Friends and family are welcome to attend and celebrate Janice's life.