Janice Louise (Nichols) Smith

Janice Louise Smith, 83, of Portsmouth, passed away May 12, 2021 at the SOMC Hospice Center. She was born July 15, 1937 in Portsmouth, a daughter of the late Mary Louise Wood Smith and Eugene Nichols.

She worked as an elevator operator in the former National Bank building, as an embroidery seamstress at the former Newberry Sporting Goods and also in the cafeterias for Portsmouth City Schools.

Janice was a member of Pleasant Green Baptist Church where she served as an usher, choir member and food pantry volunteer. As a member of Church Women United, she also served at the First Presbyterian Church food pantry. Janice was an excellent bowler, she had a passion for growing beautiful flowers, and adored Ohio State men’s basketball.

She is survived by her husband of 67 years, Delmus Reubin Smith. The couple was married in Portsmouth in July, 1953. Also surviving is her daughter, Jan (Carmen) Carr of Portsmouth; a sister, Peggy Rowland of Portsmouth; 9 grandchildren, numerous great-grandchildren, one great-great grandchild, and many nieces and nephews whom she loved.

In addition to her parents, Janice was also preceded in death by the stepfather who reared her, Willie Smith; and two children, Jill Elaine Smith and Brian Keith Smith.

Funeral services will be held Monday, May 17th at 11:00 A.M. at Pleasant Green Baptist Church with Rev. Clarence M. Parker officiating and interment in Greenlawn Cemetery. The family will receive friends at the Ralph F. Scott Funeral Home in Portsmouth from 3:00 to 5:00 P.M. on Sunday, May 16th and at the church one hour prior to services Monday.

Due to local health regulations, masks will be required for attendance at all services. 

 In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you make a donation to SOMC Hospice, 2201-25TH St. Portsmouth, OH 45662. 

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