WESTFIELD – Janice F. Van Voorhis, 91, a resident of Chester for many years, died June 10, 2014 at her home in Westfield. Born on March 6, 1923, in Saugerties, New York she was the daughter of Lewis F. and Martha (Porter) Fellows. She was educated in Saugerties Public Schools and in 1945 graduated from State University College at Oneonta, NY. She taught social studies before her marriage in 1946 to Frederick S. Van Voorhis, Jr.
While living in Southwick, she served on the Building Committee of Southwick High School. In Chester, she was a member of the Board of Registrars and the Chester Hill Association, where she served on its Scholarship Committee. For many years, she was a volunteer reader at the Lenox Studio for Recording for the Blind & Dyslexic (RFB&D). She attended the First Congregational Church of Chester (UCC).
Janice was an avid skier, enjoying many years and many special friendships, at Berkshire Snow Basin and Jiminy Peak. In addition to dear friends and neighbors from Southwick and Chester, Janice was very grateful for the friendship and support of Gail Savoy of Chester and JoAnn Graydon of Huntington, who offered caring assistance and companionship in her later years.
She is survived by two daughters, Patricia A. Van Voorhis and her partner Kathy Mack of Loveland, OH, Wendy V. Long and her husband Jerry R. Long of Huntington, MA; a son, Phillip W. Van Voorhis and his wife Maria Russo Van Voorhis of Westfield; three granddaughters, Jenna K. Biscoe, Hannah E. Long, and Emma P. Long; a grandson, Matthew F. Van Voorhis; two great-grandchildren, James Patrick and Julianna Biscoe and several nieces and nephews. Her husband of 46 years predeceased her in 1992.
O’Brien Hilltown Funeral Home in Huntington is in charge of funeral arrangements. There will be no calling hours. A memorial service will be held at the First United Church of Chester (UCC) on Saturday, June 21 at 10:00 a.m. A private burial will be held in Saugerties, NY at the convenience of the family.
In lieu of flowers, it is requested that donations be made to the First Congregational Church of Chester, 334 Skyline Trail, Chester, MA 01011 or any charity of your choice.
