It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Janice Hayward Landers, who departed this life on September 8, 2025, at the age of 76 in Rochester, NY. Born on October 6, 1948, Jan’s journey through life was marked by love, creativity, and a profound compassion for all living beings.
Jan was the beloved daughter of Raymond and Norma (Hope) Hayward. She is survived by her devoted husband, James Landers.
Jan was a proud mother to her two daughters, Molly Landers of Fairport, NY, and Jody Flanagan of Cumming, GA. She found immeasurable happiness in her role as a grandmother to Natalie and Erin Flanagan.
In addition to her immediate family, Jan is survived by her loving siblings: Norma Steimer (Thomas) of Athens, GA, Nancy Stempowski (David) of Bradenton, FL, Robert Hayward (Cheryl) of Mattydale, NY, and David Hayward of Gainesville, GA. Each of them carries a piece of her spirit and the treasured moments they shared.
Jan had a passion for craft hobbies, immersing herself in the art of macrame, cross-stitch, and sewing. Her creativity was evident in every handmade piece.
A true lover of all animals, Jan’s compassion extended beyond her family to every creature. Her empathy, kindness, and big heart were felt by all who knew her, and her legacy of caring for animals will continue to inspire others.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Jan’s name to Lollypop Farm, Humane Society of Greater Rochester, in honor of her lifelong commitment to animal welfare.
Family and friends will gather to celebrate Jan’s extraordinary life on October 17th, 2025, from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. at the Harris Whalen Lodge, 2126 Penfield Road in Penfield. Light refreshments will be served. Jan will be deeply missed, but her spirit, love, and creativity will remain forever in our hearts. May she rest in peace. LOTS OF LOVE!!
13 responses to “Landers, Janice H.”
My heart goes out to the family. Jan loved to laugh. Her smile was the warmest. And oh, how she loved her family! She will be missed. Wife, mother, friend…let her rest in peace.
May every morning, bring you hope.
May every night, bring you peace.
I’ve known Jan since I was 8 years old. We had so much fun as kids riding bikes and ice skating, going on picnics. Always up for an adventure. We didn’t get to see each other often as adults since we live on opposite coasts, but we talked on the phone all the time. A great friend who is and will be missed.
Pat- Jan was so excited when the phone rang later in the evening. She would say “ It’s Pat!!” and then say “Where’s my phone?” We would all rush around the house and finally find it in the strangest place and she couldn’t wait to call you back. It was a common occurrence.
Jan’s radiant smile drew me into friendship as we shared our lunch times together while working at Mendon High School. For twenty years Jan’s steadfast honesty, loyalty and generosity kept our friendship strong. Rest in peace dear friend. My heartfelt condolences to Jim and family.
Rest in peace Jan. It was always so nice to see you. You were always kind to me – being the younger brother of one of your closest friends I can imagine at times I was a bit of a nuisance but you never showed if I was. I will always remember you fondly.
Thanks so much Bill. Those were good times.
Jim
Jan was my younger sister. I loved her without measure. We talked virtually every day. Jan had the biggest heart. She loved her family and her friends. Phone calls from her good friends Pat and Deb meant so much to her. She loved animals and enjoyed watching the deer outside her kitchen window. She made the best chocolate chip cookies EVER.Her smile lit up the room. Her spirit was gentle. I never heard her say an unkind word about any one. Jan, I’m proud that I can call you my sister and I will never stop loving you.
Jan anxiously awaited your call every day Norm. ❤️
So many great memories with Jan. Some years back we looked forward to Jan’s “outings” to Syracuse, Jan would spend the night and we would “paint the town”! It was always a treat getting together for numerous Thanksgivings and cookouts. We really enjoyed her World famous Chocolate Chip Cookies, and we can’t forget the bacon dip! Jan always had a smile, a warm hug for everyone who had the pleasure of spending time with her. We are happy to have a part of her in our home with Mom and Dad, so we can visit with you every day. Rest in Peace Jan “Janster”.
Happy Birthday to my dear friend Jan ! I hope you are flying high with the angels today. Your friendship meant the world to me and I miss your our nightly phone calls. Your love for family and friends was evident and you were always there to
Lend a helping hand or say a kind word. I am heartbroken that you are not with us anymore but I will always remember you and love you.
Jim and family I want you all to know that I am thinking of you and that you will always be in our thoughts and prayers.
Happy Heavenly Birthday, Jan! I will miss our “birthday” talk today…I’m thankful you are in a better place with a healed body and no more pain..
So many wonderful memories over the years of family times together!
Many Christmases, Easter’s and birthdays celebrated in Rochester and the last 20 years in Georgia…those special times and memories will be with me always…
You will be missed but always in our hearts and never forgotten!
Rest in Peace 💕
(Jim’s sister Marsha)
Happy birthday Jan. Rest in peace
Thinking about you on your birthday today, my fellow Libra. Miss and love you 💝