Janice M. Smith, 80, of Defiance, passed away after a brief illness on Monday, August 31, 2020 at SKLD Care Center in Bryan, Ohio. She was born on November 12, 1939 to John and Ethel (Koch) Hancock in Defiance, Ohio. Janice was a graduate of Stryker High School. In 1958 she married Eugene "Jim" Smith, who resides in Defiance. Janice was a member of St. John's Catholic Church, and was a life member of AmVets #1991.  She worked in Dietary at Bryan Hospital in the 1990's until her retirement. She enjoyed casinos, reading, genealogy, and spending time with her granddaughters and great-grandchildren. Janice is survived by her loving husband of 62 years, Eugene "Jim" Smith of Defiance, her son Thomas (Lee Ann) Smith of Wind Ridge, PA, her daughter, Julie (David) Hammons of Defiance, her nephew Thomas (Bev) Hancock, and her granddaughters, Shawna (Brett) Heller and Jana (Daniel) Eidenier, five great-grandchildren, and her pup "Katie". In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her son, Terry Smith, brother, Leonard Hancock, sister, Donna Belle Brenner, nephew Dean Hancock, and granddaughter, Jessica Lang. Janice had requested there be no visitation or services. A private graveside service is planned at a later date. Schaffer Funeral Home assisted the family with arrangements.

Those planning an expression of sympathy are asked to consider a memorial contribution to a charity of the donor's choice. Online condolences can be given at www.Schafferfh.com.