Janice Duett-Stephan, beloved mother and grandmother, passed away peacefully on June 7, 2026, at the age of 96 in Richland, Washington.

Janice was born on January 20, 1930 in Kansas City, Missouri to Louis and Florence Duett.

Janice lived a life filled with love, strength, kindness, and devotion to her family. She touched the lives of all who knew her with her warm heart, gentle spirit, and unwavering care for those she loved.

Janice’s favorite poem, written by Joyce Kilmer was read to her frequently by her mother.

Trees:

I think that I shall never see

A poem lovely as a tree.

A tree whose hungry mouth is prest

Against the earth’s sweet flowing breast;

A tree that looks at God all day,

And lifts her leafy arms to pray;

A tree that may in Summer wear

A nest of robins in her hair;

Upon whose bosom snow has lain;

Who intimately lives with rain.

Poems are made by fools like me,

But only God can make a tree.

Janice will be remembered most for the love she shared with her family. She was a devoted mother, grandmother, and great grandmother whose guidance, wisdom, and compassion created a lasting legacy that will continue through future generations. Her home was a place of comfort, laughter, and cherished memories.

Janice was proceeded in death by her loving husband Joachim Stephan, her brother Neal Duett whom she was very close to, and her parent’s Louis and Florence Duett.

She is survived by her loving family, daughter Paula (Mike) Yencopal, son Kenneth (Patricia) Hohenberg, daughter Krista (Steve) Weeks, stepdaughter’s Marie Holst, Annette (Alan) Carlson, and step son’s Eric (Teresa) Stephan, Alex (Janine) Stephan. Jan also is survived by numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren who will forever hold her in their hearts and honor the many lessons she taught through her example of grace, resilience, and unconditional love.

Though she is no longer with us, the memories she created and the love she gave will remain a source of comfort and strength to all who knew her. Our beloved Mother and Grandmother, who will always be in our hearts.

A private celebration of Janice’s life will be held in the near future for immediate family.

Our family would like to extend our gratitude to Dr. Merrill, and Dr. Tan at Kadlec Regional Medical Center. Also, a heartfelt thank you to all of the amazing staff at Richland Rehabilitation, and Guardian Angel Homes in Richland. Our mother loved living at Guardian Angel, and the family appreciated your kindness and loving care that she received until she passed.