Janice Gail McCoy, 73, passed away peacefully at her home on April 5, 2026, surrounded by her loved ones.

Janice was born on January 28, 1953, in Dallas, Texas, to Nolen and Lessie Wilson. As a young girl, she moved with her family to Baldwin Park, California, where she graduated from Baldwin Park High School in 1971. During her high school years, she was a proud member of the Indian Maiden drill team, performing in the Rose Parade multiple times—an experience she cherished. Following high school, Janice attended cosmetology school, earning her beautician license. In the late 1970s, she returned to Texas, where she built a life rooted in service and creativity. She worked as an activities director at a nursing home, bringing joy and companionship to residents, and later worked with Health and Human Services, providing medical transportation and care to those in need.

In time, Janice found her way back to her passion for sewing—what began as a personal interest soon blossomed into a remarkable career. As a gifted seamstress and designer, she became known for her attention to detail and artistry. She altered wedding dresses that traveled across the globe and created costumes for a variety of productions, including the Ice Capades. Sewing was more than a profession to Janice—it was her passion and the way she expressed her love and creativity.

Janice was preceded in death by her parents, Nolen and Lessie Wilson; her stepmother, Jean Wilson; her husband, Jerry McCoy; and her sisters, Lisa Stannard and Deborah Gill.She is survived by her brother, Nolen Wilson Jr of Athens, Texas, her daughters andsons-in-law: Tammy and Tony Gorden of Murchison, Texas; Brandi and David Wallace of Londonderry, New Hampshire; Kristi and Ani Natekar of San Ramon, California; Melissa Macuraof Athens, Texas; and Helen McCoy of Palestine, Texas and honorary son and daughter-in-law, Jonathan and Zantana McCoy of Mineola, Texas. She is lovingly remembered by her 16grandchildren; one great-grandchild; and many cherished nieces, nephews and cousins.

Janice will be remembered for her servant’s heart, her creativity, and the love she stitched into  everything she touched.

A service to celebrate Janice’s life will be held on Saturday, April 11, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Virginia Hill Baptist Church in Athens, Texas.

Her legacy lives on in the lives she touched and the beautiful work she leaves behind.