Janice Witherspoon

Janice "Pan" Witherspoon, 75, of Baltimore, Maryland, peacefully passed away on March 11, 2026. Born on September 14, 1950, to the late Hazel Gray, Janice was a woman of remarkable strength, a "never-give-up" attitude, and a heart that knew no bounds. At the age of 17, Janice moved to Maryland, where she attended Job Corps and began a lifelong journey of service to others. Her nurturing nature led her to a fulfilling career in healthcare, where she worked at Johns Hopkins Hospital and Mercy Hospital and later served as a dedicated in-home caregiver. Janice truly lived her life for others, often described as the person who would "give you the shirt off her back" if you were in need. Outside of her professional life, Janice found joy in the simple pleasures. She was an amazing cook who brought her family together through her meals. She loved the excitement of Atlantic City, the strategy of a good card game, and cheering on her favorite sports, especially basketball. Above all, she cherished the time spent with her family, often with a cigarette in her hand and a kind word for those she loved. Janice was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and a loyal friend. She is survived by her husband, James Witherspoon. Her legacy continues through her children: Tajha Witherspoon-Thompson, Ahmad Witherspoon and Markeya Culbreath; and her son-in-law, Steven Thompson, whom she loved and cherished as her own. She was the proud grandmother of Ke'Auri Thompson, Amari Thompson, and Khiyea Saunders, and a doting great-grandmother to a host of great-grandchildren. She also leaves behind her siblings: Edward "Pete" Culbreath, Mackell "Mack:" Culbreath, Veronica Jones, Carolyn Braswell, Diane Gray Robertson, Cassandra "Sand" Gray, and Michelle "Shell" Gray, along with many nieces and nephews who will miss her dearly. Janice was preceded in death by her mother, Hazel "Brooks" Gray; her sister Elma "Jean" Manning; and her brother, Antonio "Tony" Gray. Janice "Pan" Witherspoon will be remembered for her resilient spirit, her immense kindness, and the unwavering love she had for her family. Her presence will be deeply missed, but her memory will live on in the hearts of all that knew her.

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Janice Witherspoon

September 14, 1950 - March 11, 2026