Janice Elaine Rodriguez, born on May 30, 1943, in Takoma Park, Maryland, passed away peacefully on January 16, 2026, in Lakewood, California. She was a devoted mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother who will be profoundly missed by all who knew her.

Janice graduated from Montgomery Blair High School in Silver Spring, Maryland, Class of 1961, where she discovered and nurtured her love for musical theater. Following graduation, she joined the 2nd Army Combo Band at Fort Meade, Maryland. Her musical talent did not go unnoticed, and she later signed a recording contract with Monument Records in Nashville, Tennessee, where she recorded several songs. In 1964, Janice relocated to Los Angeles, California.

Janice was a devoted Christian who loved the Lord and shared her faith generously with others. She had a passion for singing and dancing and was known for her culinary talents as a great cook. These gifts brought joy to all those around her.

In her personal life, Janice was a loving mother to her daughters, Angela Lasch and Gina Rodriguez. She was a grandmother to Nathanael Lasch and Caleb Lasch, Jordan Lasch and his wife Makenna Lasch, Amanda Tolleson, Aubrey Gomez, and Zane Tolleson. As a great-grandmother, she cherished her time with Scottie Lasch and Charlotte Lasch. She is also survived by her sister, Loretta Sutton of Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, and her son-in-law, Scott Lasch.

Janice is predeceased by her father, William Harvey Ward; her mother, Marguerite Folsom Ward; and her brother, Richard Ward. She will be remembered for her warm spirit, kindness, and unwavering support for her family.

Her legacy will continue to shine through her loved ones, who carry forward the values she instilled in them. Janice Elaine Rodriguez leaves behind a profound impact on her family, friends, and community, and her memories will forever be cherished in their hearts.

Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life; and I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever. Psalm 23:6