Janice Marie (Foley) Kerr

January 26, 1951 – August 29, 2026

Janice Marie Kerr, née Foley, passed away on August 29, 2026, at the age of 75.

Janice was born on January 26, 1951, in New Britain, Connecticut, to Thomas and Barbara Foley. One of six daughters, she grew up surrounded by her sisters and family.

As a young woman, Janice made her way to California, where she met Kevin Kerr. The two married in 1977 and made their home in San Diego, where they welcomed their children, Courtney and Keith. After more than 20 years in California, the family relocated to Missouri, where Janice and Kevin continued raising their family. Janice also built a career with Verizon in Wentzville, remaining with the company until her retirement. After nearly 30 years of marriage and once their children were grown, Janice and Kevin later divorced.

Following retirement, Janice spent many years living in Indiana near her daughter, Courtney, and her family. She became an integral part of the day-to-day lives of her grandchildren, Kendal and Cooper. She was there for the ordinary moments as much as the important ones, and her presence became a constant throughout their childhood and the years they spent growing up.

In the final years of her life, Janice began a new chapter in Mississippi, moving there to be closer to her son, Keith, and his family. Just as she had been able to share so much of Kendal and Cooper’s childhood in Indiana, living in Mississippi gave her the opportunity to become a part of the everyday lives of Brayden, Benjamin, Beau, and Bella. She treasured the time she was able to spend with them, watching them grow, sharing in the little everyday moments, and simply having the chance to be their grandma up close. Those years gave Janice something especially important to her—the opportunity to be present in the lives of all six of her grandchildren and to create memories with each of them.

Janice was fiercely independent and lived life on her own terms. She especially loved being near the water. Whether it was the beach or a swimming pool, she was happiest with sunshine and water nearby. She also had a lifelong love for animals and always held a special place in her heart for them.

Of all the roles Janice held throughout her life, being a grandmother was one she treasured most. Her six grandchildren—Kendal, Cooper, Brayden, Benjamin, Beau, and Bella—were her pride and joy. She loved them deeply and was immensely proud of each of them.

Janice is survived by her daughter, Courtney (Heath) Whetstone of Warsaw, Indiana; her son, Keith (Kristen) Kerr of Gulfport, Mississippi; her grandchildren, Kendal, Cooper, Brayden, Benjamin, Beau, and Bella; her sisters, Denise, Leslie, Nancy, and Betsy; as well as extended family.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Thomas and Barbara Foley, and her sister, Barbara.

Janice’s life took her from Connecticut to California, Missouri, Indiana, and finally Mississippi. Each place marked a different chapter of her life, but family remained at the heart of so many of them. She will be remembered for her fierce independence, her love of sunshine and water, the tremendous pride she had in her children and grandchildren, and the many years she spent simply being there for the people she loved.

In accordance with Janice’s wishes, she will be cremated. A private family service will be held at a later date with her children and grandchildren.

In lieu of flowers, those wishing to honor Janice’s memory may consider making a donation to the South Mississippi Humane Society, reflecting her lifelong love of animals.