Janice Pemberton

Obituary For Janice Pemberton

Janice LeGrande Pemberton was born on May 20, 1950, in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. She was a true Southern Belle, with strength woven into her spirit. Janice was the beloved daughter of the late Helen and Lester Pemberton. She transitioned peacefully on February 25, 2026, leaving behind an irreplaceable legacy. Janice is now eternally reunited with her beloved sisters, Carolyn Bryant of Greensboro, NC, and Madestine Pemberton of Thomasville, NC.

With her passing, a generation comes to an end. She was the backbone of our family — the matriarch, a steady voice of wisdom and strength who kept us all together. Her love, guidance, and unwavering presence will forever remain in our hearts.

Janice began her journey in Winston-Salem before relocating to Elizabeth, New Jersey, where she worked in housekeeping, babysitting, and medical roles to provide for her family. Later, she moved to Thomasville, North Carolina, to create a better and more stable life for her grandchildren. Providing was not a duty to her — it was love in action.

She was raw, real, loving, and did not hold her tongue. As she would say: “She may be disabled, but her mouth is not disabled.” “I raised you to be strong and not depend on anyone.” “We’re family — we stick together.” “Don’t worry; you just have to pray to the Lord.” These weren’t just words; they were commandments in our household. They set the standards, conveyed important lessons, and provided protection.

Her home was always welcoming, and her kitchen was never closed. If you needed food, she would always feed you. If you needed somewhere to stay, she would make room for you. If you asked for advice, she would give it to you directly—no sugarcoating. And if you needed prayer, she would remind you where to turn.

With her passing, we do not just mourn a grandmother or mother. We mourn the matriarch, the last elder, and the foundation stone of this family. However, what she built will not crumble. Her strength resides in her children, her spirit lives on in her grandchildren, and her faith endures in the generations that follow. Janice LeGrande Pemberton was our backbone, and though she rests now, the values she upheld will endure forever.

Janice was a devoted mother to her four children: Deon Pemberton (Tumorea “Candy” Pemberton), June Pemberton, Helen Pemberton, and Tina Pemberton all of Kernersville, NC. Her love also extended deeply to her grandchildren: Jahquan Pemberton, Jhanaya Gary, Deonna Pemberton, Chavezz Pemberton, Jamillah Pemberton, Janice Pemberton (“Ja Ja”), Deon Pemberton (“Lil Deon”), Jasmine Thomas, Chase Pemberton, Javannah Myers, Prince Nesbitt, and Princess Nesbitt. Additionally, she was blessed with thirteen great-grandchildren, a testament to her strength and love, which will continue for generations to come. She also leaves behind her beloved brother-in-law, Shawn Bryant; her nephews Fredrick “Freddy” Pemberton, Edward “Khalif” Pemberton, Lee Pemberton, and Cameron Ashcraft; her nieces, Shawndra Bryant, Alicia “Meatball” Jones, and Jasmine Ashcraft; her loving family: Lestina Pemberton and Dinah Ashcraft, both of Winston-Salem, NC; her beloved God-fearing friend, Debra McBee-Harris; along with a host of extended family and friends who were touched by her strength and generosity. She leaves a lasting memory for all who knew her.

Funeral service will be held Friday, March 6, 2026 at 1:00 p.m. at Phillips Funeral Service Chapel. The family will receive friends at the chapel from12:30 p.m. until 1:00 p.m.

Final arrangements are entrusted to Phillips Funeral Service, Inc.

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