Janice Elaine

Woodson

Janice Elaine (Walker) Woodson, 67, of Toledo, Ohio, passed away peacefully in 2025, leaving behind a legacy of service, love, and resilience that will live on in the countless lives she touched.

Born on June 6, 1958, to Dorothy Lee and James Edward Walker, Janice grew up in Toledo with a spirit that was magnetic and unmistakably her own. She graduated from Scott High School and later earned her degree from the University of Toledo. A lifelong learner, she pursued her studies further, completing a degree in Chemical Dependency Counseling. A field that would define her purpose and calling. Janice accepted Christ at an early age and attended The Mount Chesapeake (Global Fellowship of Churches) Church faithfully.

Janice dedicated her entire career to caring for and uplifting others. She began by nurturing children as a daycare worker at Children's Discovery Center, providing safety, guidance, and love to hundreds of young people in their earliest years. In the early 1990s, she answered a deeper calling, turning to substance abuse and mental health counseling. She deeply believed in the dignity of every person, that all people have the right to a fresh start, and that those in need deserve support without judgment. Through her work at Cummings-Zucker, UMADOP, and St. Anthony's Villa, she walked beside countless youth and adults on their journey to sobriety and healing.

In 2003, Janice began her career with Lucas County Children Services, where she would remain until her passing. It was here that she found her life's work. With tireless dedication, she advocated for families and children during their most difficult moments, ensuring they had access to resources, stability, and hope. She was known for her fierce determination, her empathy, and her unshakable belief that every child deserves to be safe, loved, and connected to family. Her legacy at LCCS is woven into the lives of thousands of families across Lucas County, each one forever changed by her care and commitment.

Janice's spirit was as powerful as her work. She was magnetic, authentic, willful, and strong. She carried a presence that commanded every room she entered and a warmth that made people feel seen, valued, and loved. Her laughter, honesty, and unwavering determination made her unforgettable.

Janice was preceded in death by her parents, Dorothy and James, and her brothers, Kevin and Michael. She leaves to cherish her memory her devoted husband of 35 years, Fredric Cedell Woodson; her three children, Corey Walker (Trinia), Nekiesha Taylor (Marvin), and Kiana Woodson (Ron); her beloved grandchildren Brione Walker, Talese Simley, Taliyah Walker, Taylor Walker, Caden Taylor, Niah Miller, Maya Taylor, Braden Walker, and Bryce Tucker; siblings Ronald Walker and Lori Reeves; and a host of nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends. She was adored by more people than can be counted, each carrying a story of her kindness, her strength, or the way she brightened their day.

The family wishes to give a special thank you to the Woodson family, Janice's second family, who embraced her wholly when she married Cedell and treated her as a cherished member of their own. She loved the Woodsons deeply and treasured the bond they shared.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to everyone who has shared condolences, memories, and stories of how Janice impacted their lives. To honor her legacy, the family asks that those who were touched by her continue her work in their own way: if Janice ever made you laugh, feel safe, feel seen, or gave you strength, pass that gift along to someone else. In this way, her spirit will live on in all of us.

Though her departure feels unbearably soon, Janice's family takes comfort in knowing she is reunited with her parents, brothers, and loved ones who passed before her. She is home, and she is well.