Janice M. Brown

Janice Marie Brown, a cherished mother, sister, aunt, and friend, passed away peacefully on Sunday, August 18, 2024, at the age of 76, surrounded by her loving family after a long illness.

Born on May 28, 1948, in Prescott, Arkansas, Janice was the cherished daughter of the late Rev. Samuel Brown and Irene Brown. She moved to Rockford, Illinois as a young child, where she later became a trailblazer and a source of joy for everyone around her.

Janice made history as the first African American employee of the Rockford Fire Department, where she dedicated 33 years of her life to serving the community with pride and unwavering commitment as Senior Clerk in the Fire Prevention division. Even after her retirement, her commitment to service continued with 13 years as a Telecommunications Specialist at Rockford University.

Janice was an active and vibrant member of the Rockford community. She was a longtime member of the Rockford Travelers Bowling League and a proud member of the AARC Booker Washington Center Senior Boomers. Known for her incredible sense of humor and her vibrant spirit, Janice was often the life of the party. She loved being around people and cherished the many special friendships she had maintained. Her family adored her deeply, treasuring the countless fun memories they shared. Whether it was a lively gathering or a quiet moment together, Janice filled every occasion with laughter and love, creating memories that her family will hold close to their hearts forever.

Janice is survived by her son Steven Brown, and his wife, Sally Sarauer-Brown; her sisters Ruth Torina and Jimmie Dukes, special sister-in-law Sally Brown, her nieces Veronica Woods, Tammy Brown, Sonja Muhammad, Latarsha Rucker, Courteney Torina, Ald. Gabrielle Torina, nephew Travis Brown, great nieces Kamrin Muhammad and Kirsten Muhammad, and her great great-nephew, Kyan Muhammad. Janice was preceded in death by her father Rev. Samuel Brown, mother Irene Brown, and brother Henry Brown.

Janice was deeply loved and will be missed by many. Her legacy of laughter, service, and love will live on in the hearts forever of all who knew her. 

A visitation for Janice will be held on Friday, August 23, 2024, from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. at Fitzgerald Funeral Home and Crematory, Mulford Chapel, 1860 S. Mulford Road, Rockford, IL, 61108. A Funeral service will take place on Saturday, August 24, 2024, 11:00 a.m. at Fitzgerald Funeral Home and Crematory, Mulford Chapel. To share memories and extend condolences online, please visit www.fitzgeraldfh.com.