Janice Marie (Paschall) Carpenter

Janice Marie Carpenter, 70, of Shawnee, Kansas died on February 6, 2023 at her home. Janice, also known as Jan, Mom, or Nana was born on March 31, 1952 to Bradie and Merlyn (Marcks) Paschall in Independence, Missouri. She graduated in 1970 from Van Horn High School in Independence, MO. She began working in management at Ford Motor Credit (70s,) and later in sales at Superior Toyota (late 90s.) She later moved on to driving school buses for Blue Valley School District and later DeSoto School District (mid/late 90s-early 2000s.) Around this time she began in-home care for her mother Merlyn in Shawnee. She also ran an in-home daycare early 1980’s- early 1990’s. Jan went on to pursue her CNA certificate, which began her career at Shawnee Mission Medical Center from the early 2000’s until her retirement.

Jan loved deeply. She was attentive to the interests and life events of all those around her and made a strong effort to check-in on how their lives were evolving. She took time to look into everyone’s interests and learn more about them, resulting in many articles being sent your way. If there was a piece of obscure information you were looking for, you could count on her to find it within 1-2 business days.

Jan was a fierce mother of four, who worked hard to protect and love her children in the unique ways they needed. That fierceness was only doubled when she became a grandmother.

Jan had several passions that she pursued over the course of her life but above all she was a storyteller. Her apparent love for sharing experiences from over the years included stories of her past, her family, or dogs, and always resulted in her adding a vibrant anecdote to the conversation. Her vast work experiences resulted in excellent storytelling which is where you could see her confidence come alive, she had a great deal of pride and passion for each job she took on. Jan had a story for just about any occasion, and each story was told with great detail, wisdom, and enthusiasm, but what made them so impactful is the smile and larger than life laugh that accompanied them. While Jan was caring for her mother at home she began developing a passion for landscaping, particularly flowers and gardening. This hobby allowed her to attract birds and butterflies outside her mother’s window, that she could enjoy in her last years. She would pour hours into researching which plants thrive best, and enjoyed the artistry that went into planning a well curated garden.

Jan dedicated the last two decades to her passion and love for dogs. She was a devoted program coordinator of National Brussels Griffon Rescue. During this time Jan played a pivotal role in rehabilitating dogs rescued from the puppy mills, assisting in rescue operations, and diligently working with potential owners to find the perfect forever home for each dog.

She is preceded in death by her parents Bradie and Merlyn Paschall.

Survivors include her sister, Judy Paschall; husband of 29 years, Steve Carpenter; children,Justin Paschall, Jeremy Macan, Jennifer Zarda, and Jaclyn Carpenter; 6 grandchildren, Corben Zarda, Gabie Andre, Alexsys Johnson, Adaline Zarda, Bowen Zarda, and Malcom Paschall.

Memorial contributions in her name may be made to National Brussels Griffon Rescue, (nbgr.org) to aid in the rescue and care of current and future dogs.

A celebration of life reception will soon be announced for those to offer the family condolences and share in remembering.