Janice E. Petrovich

Janice Elizabeth Petrovich, 92, formerly of Floral Ave., Cortland passed away on March 10, 2025.

Janice was born May 24, 1932 in Cadishead, England, growing up during World War II and telling her family countless stories of that time. She bravely moved to the United States in 1952, on her own, to support her sisters who were already there. She stayed and settled in Cortland, where she retired in 1995 after 30 years of service from Smith Corona.

She was a lifelong Episcopalian, attending Calvary Episcopal Church in Homer, where she was an active member of the Altar Guild. She was also a member of the English Teas in Homer.

A lover of animals, Janice was a lifelong dog owner and would happily feed any animal that crossed her path, including feeding Werther's candies to deer. A connoisseur of the finer things in life, you could find her sipping a fine cup of English tea or an even finer Manhattan, straight up of course.

A complete package of class and sass, you could always find Janice with a polished set of naturally long fingernails, excellent for giving back scratches and pinches on the bum if needed. Keeping her hair appointments was also a top priority – rain, snow and/or broken limbs could not stop this determined lady from getting to her standing Friday hair appointment.

In line with her English roots, Janice was a lifelong supporter of Manchester United and always adored her twin, Elizabeth II - God Save the Queen. Despite leading most of her adult life in the US, her English accent joyfully never faded away.

A loving mother and grandmother, Janice is survived by her daughter, Claire M. (David) Payne of Cortland; two granddaughters, Heather (Anthony) Lewis of Cortland; and Danielle Payne (Emilien Coulot) of Saint Genis Pouilly, France; her great-grandson, Gavin Lewis, and several nieces, nephews and cousins, both in the US and across the pond. She was a true inspiration and source of steadfast strength to her entire family and anyone who had the pleasure of crossing paths with her. Her resilient spirit knew no bounds and has had, and will continue to have, a lasting, immeasurable influence on all her loved ones.

She was predeceased by her husband, Michael ‘Mike’ Petrovich in 1981, and her siblings, Joseph; Harold; Jack; Georgina; and Noreen. 

In keeping with Janice’s wishes, there will be a church service at Grace and Holy Spirit Episcopal Church in Cortland (date TBD) as well as a celebration of life in the spring/early summer.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Mrs. Petrovich’s name may be directed to the Cortland SPCA, 879 McLean Rd., Cortland, NY 13045 or the charity of one's choice.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Janice E. Petrovich, please visit our floral store.