In the heart of Chicago, in winter's embrace,

Janice J. Clark, known as Jan Jan, with grace,

Entered this world in '81's glow,

Leaving us softly as October winds blow.

A daughter, a mother, a sister so dear,

Jan Jan's laughter will echo from year to year.

Born to Linda and James, a family's pride,

Her spirit, a beacon, with love as her guide.

In Roswell B. Mason, her journey began,

With crayons and laughter, her life's vibrant plan.

At Collins High's halls, she walked with a smile,

Embracing each challenge with her unique style.

Her greatest role came, not in titles or fame,

But as Zoyie and Zachary's mom – her acclaim.

For them, she shone brightly, a guiding star's light,

Their laughter and dreams kept her heart warm at night.

LaToya, Claudine, and Lori, her kin,

Shared secrets and dreams, a sisterly spin.

Nieces and nephews, a joyous brigade,

In Jan Jan's rich tapestry, their memories made.

A player of hoops in her youthful days,

Her competitive spirit, a fiery blaze.

A lover of arts, music's sweet call,

Fashion and drawing, she adored them all.

Nature's own child, she roamed forests and streams,

Finding solace and peace in the outdoors' dreams.

And in the ring, with gloves laced up tight,

She danced like a butterfly, strong in her fight.

Jan Jan, the funny, with jokes to amuse,

Loving and generous, walking in others' shoes.

Her heart, an open book for all to read,

A life well-lived, sown like a beautiful seed.

"Life is a song, sing it with all your might,"

Jan Jan would say, as she danced through the night.

"Sing like no one's listening, love without end,"

A quote from Mother Teresa, a message to send.

Now we gather, with hearts intertwined,

To honor Jan Jan, one of a kind.

Her laughter, her warmth, her generous way,

Will brighten the corners of our world every day.

In Chicago, she left us, her soul taking flight,

Into a realm where the stars shine more bright.

Natural death came, a whisper, a sigh,

A closing of eyes, a final goodbye.

So here's to Jan Jan, whose life was a song,

A melody of love, where we all belong.

Her memory, a treasure, a story to tell,

In the hearts of her loved ones, forever to dwell.