Janice Dayton

Janice Ellen Donahue Dayton passed on Jan. 13 after suffering the debilitating and degenerative effects of Alzheimer’s disease for many years.

She was born in Framingham on May 8, 1942, to Norman and Hilma (Ruggles) Donahue, the first of five children. The family moved to Hopkinton when Janice was young and she graduated Hopkinton High School. She enjoyed horseback riding. Her first job was scooping ice cream at the local creamery. She spent much of her free time in the summers at Lake Whitehall with friends.

Janice had an eternal optimism about the world and life. She loved music and would hum the tune if she didn’t know the words.

She had many varied interests/hobbies including craft making, gardening, ceramics, bowling and baking for her family (she was known for her whoopie pies). It would surprise no one to learn she had just reupholstered a love seat or stenciled the living room walls. And after all the animals that came and went in her home (brought by her sons) that she would be frightened by or called to care for, she could’ve received an honorary veterinary degree.

She enjoyed rooting for her New England Patriots and usually had the team flag flying on game days.

She loved the ocean and lived near or vacationed there as often as possible.

She enjoyed being a homemaker as well as having a career outside the home at times in her life. But she most enjoyed spending time with her family: sons, grandchildren, siblings and nieces/nephews.

The family thanks Bayada Hospice and the entire staffs of Birchwood Terrace and Ethan Allen Residences for their care.

A memorial service will be held at some future time due to COVID-19. In remembrance, please consider a donation to your preferred Alzheimer’s research organization.

Arrangements are under the care of Champlain Cremation, a proud member of the LaVigne Funeral Home Family.