BERLIN-Janice M. Aja passed away peacefully on April 23, 2026, at Woodridge Nursing Home, where she had resided for several years.

She was born on April 28, 1932, in Montpelier, Vermont, the daughter of Grant and Leona (Tatro) Lamell. In September 1950, she married Joseph F. Aja. Together they made their home in East Barre, where they raised their six children. Joseph passed away on November 13, 1970, at the age of 41, leaving Janice to lovingly raise their children, who were then between the ages of 9 and 18.

In addition to her husband, she was predeceased by her parents; her brother; her sons, Michael and Jeffrey; and her grandson, Steven B. Aja.

She is survived by her sons, Joseph F. Aja Jr. of Dalzell, South Carolina, and Steven Aja of Winston, Georgia; her daughters, Lisa Aja of East Barre and Lori Aja of Washington State; and her daughters-in-law, Cathy (Michael) Aja, Terri (Steven) Aja, and Kathi (Jeffrey) Aja. She also leaves behind her cherished grandchildren, Christopher, Anthony, Erin Hart, Garrett, Lance, Ashlee Rushwin, and Cory; and her beloved great-grandchildren, Colton, Alexa, Cru and Harrison Hart, and Amelia Rushwin.

Janice, affectionately known as “Jan,” took immense pride in her home and family. She was known for keeping a spotless house, preparing meals that brought everyone to the table, and filling quiet moments with knitting, embroidery, and reading. Though she held a variety of jobs over the years, her time working at the Tower Restaurant with the Sykas family remained especially close to her heart.

Janice’s family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate staff at Woodridge Nursing Home, especially those on the Spruce and Maple Units, as well as Central Vermont Home Health and Hospice. Their exceptional care, kindness, and genuine appreciation for Janice’s lively and spirited personality brought comfort and joy to her final years.

Honoring her wishes, Janice will be cremated. A graveside service will be held at Berlin Corners Cemetery at 11:00 a.m. on June 3, 2026.

She will be remembered for her strength and the unmistakable spark that made her truly unforgettable.

Arrangements are in the care of Pruneau-Polli Funeral Home in Barre Vt.

Those wishing to express online condolences may do so at:www.pruneaupollifuneralhome.com