Janice "Jan" Hellman

On Tuesday, September 24, 2024, Janice Nalore Hellman peacefully joined the Lord and her beloved husband, Maurice Dean Hellman, for their long-awaited reunion. Born on June 14, 1938, in St. Joseph, MO, Jan’s life was one of love, resilience, and taking it one day at a time. She was a woman who embraced the beauty of everyday moments and had a way of leaving a lasting imprint on all who knew her.

Jan shared her heart and life with Maurie, whom she married to on September 19, 1996, and their bond was a testament to enduring love and companionship. She is survived by her sister Cynthia (Phil) Burnette of Florida, her sons Chris (Melissa) Myers of Florida and Howard (Lynn) Myers Jr. of Tennessee, as well as eight grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.

Jan spent the majority of her adult life in Peoria, IL, where she raised her two sons and cultivated a rich life full of meaningful friendships and contributions. Her professional endeavors were as varied as her passions, from ferrying aircraft to working at the Peoria Symphony, where her love for classical music was cemented. Music, like her friendships, carried her through many phases of life, and her involvement in the symphony and her church reflected her dedication to creating and sustaining community.

A pivotal figure in her life was Bill W., whose influence reshaped her world and brought treasured friendships that gave her new purpose and peace. Jan was open about the gratitude she felt for these relationships and the impact they had on her journey.

In her later years, Jan moved to Nettles Island to be closer to family. As was her nature, she quickly became an integral part of the community. You couldn't miss Jan, often seen ringing her bell and cruising by in her leopard-print-adorned golf cart—leopard print was her signature style, right down to the seats! Whether it was playing cards or Mah-jongg, volunteering at events, attending church, doing water aerobics, or being an active member of the “Chickadees,” Janice always found a way to be present and connected. Most importantly, she cherished her roles as a mom, grandmother and friend.

Honoring her wishes, there will be no formal funeral service. Instead, her ashes will be spread in the Illinois River, reuniting her with her husband, Maurie. As we say goodbye, we remember a life well lived, full of love, laughter, music, and friendship. Janice leaves behind a legacy of kindness and strength that will forever be felt by those who knew and loved her.

As everyone knows, Jan was an animal lover, especially of dogs. Her rescue, Stitch, was her constant companion and a testament to her kind heart. In lieu of flowers, Jan's family kindly asks that donations be made to your local animal shelter in her memory, honoring her lifelong love for animals.