Janice Berkowitz Porter

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Janice Frayda Porter on June 4, 2026, at the age of 83. Janice was born on August 12, 1942, in Detroit, Michigan to the late Dorothy (Bernstein) Berkowitz and Hyman Berkowitz. Janice lived a life filled with love, compassion, strength, and unwavering devotion to her family. She was a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, family member, and friend whose kindness touched the lives of all who knew her. Her warm heart, gentle spirit, and caring nature will be remembered and cherished by those fortunate enough to have shared in her life. Janice was a skilled programmer and systems analyst. She received her Bachelors Degree in Mathematics from Wayne State University. After receiving her degree, and moving to Northern Virginia, she worked for multiple information technology companies while raising her three children. Janice worked in the Pentagon as a systems analyst, where she met her husband. Her husband Wayne W. Porter passed away in 2018. Janice was also preceded in death by her parents, and her sister Marsha (Berkowitz) Goldfine. She is survived by her loving children, Mark Porter (Nikki), Noah Porter (Jessica), and Ruth Smyers (Steve). She was a devoted proud grandmother to Patricia, Julian, Gabriel, William, Emerson, and Everett, all of whom brought immense joy to her life. She is also survived by nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends who will forever cherish the memories they shared with her. Family was the center of Janice's world. She treasured every moment spent with her children and grandchildren, whether celebrating milestones, sharing stories, or simply enjoying each other's company. Her home was a place of laughter, comfort, and unconditional love. With her sister Marsha, whom she was very close with, nearby in Maryland, Janice and her family visited “the Goldfines” often. Janice and Marsha spoke on the phone nearly every day. Together, they made sure the cousins saw each other often and truly grew up together. Janice found happiness in life's simple pleasures. She loved watching the birds outside her window, and she could spend hours enjoying their beauty and song. She was an avid reader who enjoyed getting lost in any book, magazine, or newspaper she could get her hands on. She was especially a fan of murder mysteries. Janice also had a deep appreciation for classical music, it always filled her home and brought her peace. She was a fantastic cook who published her own cookbook in 1981 called Could I Have Your Recipe? She also was the proud owner of several black-and-white “tuxedo” cats, including (but not limited to) Mittens and Janie. Those who knew Janice will remember her for her generosity, compassion, and unwavering dedication to the people she loved. Whenever someone mentioned a personal interest, Janice would usually remember and follow-up with a gift or newspaper article about it. Janice was very strong in her beliefs. She stood up for women's rights, and could be seen at rallies supporting her fellow women. Janice also was strong in her Jewish beliefs. She raised her children within a Jewish household. Janice was unable to attend temple later in life, but she still stayed true to her Jewish identity. Though words cannot fully express the loss felt by those who loved her, they find comfort in the countless memories she leaves behind. Her family acknowledges the lasting impact she has made on all of their lives. Janice’s family and friends will celebrate her life on Wednesday, June 10, 2026 at 2:30 pm at the Garden of Remembrance Memorial Chapel in Clarksburg, MD. Rabbi Saul Oresky, Congregation Mishkan Torah, will officiate the service. May Janice Frayda Porter's memory forever be a blessing! Zichronah Livracha "May her memory be a blessing."

Janice Berkowitz Porter

August 12, 1942 - June 4, 2026