Janice Marie (Sims) Keller

Our sweet, butterfly-loving momma, Janice Marie Keller, went home to be with the Lord, and to be reunited with our daddy Roy. She passed peacefully in the place she loved most: her home on June 26, 2025.  She was wrapped in her favorite butterfly blanket, wearing her favorite warm pajamas, just the way she wanted.

Mom was more than a mother. She was our best friend, our rock, our confidante. She was the one we called for everything—the name we said a thousand times a day without thinking. She remembered every birthday, every anniversary, every milestone. The number of people who’ve told us, “Your mom never missed sending a card,” or “She always made me a hand-crocheted towel,” shows just how wide and deep her love ran. She didn’t just show up for people—she poured into them.

Her grandkids were the joy of her life. Hayden, Mason, and Quinton were the job she took most seriously and loved the most. From watching baseball and golf to pointing out butterflies or birds in the backyard, she found delight in every little moment shared with them. Whether cheering from the stands or cuddling on the couch, they were the apple of her eye—her greatest pride, her sweetest joy, and the center of her world.

Momma was the keeper of our family’s history. Names, dates, stories. We called her when we needed to know anything. And when it came time to plan her service, my sister and I realized we didn’t know half of what we needed to. We called what felt like a dozen family members, asking for full names, and we’re pretty sure the funeral director was this close to losing it. But we laughed through the tears and said, “Momma always knew that stuff. We just called her.”

We were spoiled. Loved beyond words. And now, as two daughters navigating life without either of our parents, we’re holding on to each other, grateful that we still make a pretty amazing team. Even if we’re flying blind without her. 

Mom, we need you now more than ever. And while our hearts are aching, we’re praying you can still hear us, still guide us, and still love us like there’s no tomorrow.

Until we see you again, kiss Daddy for us.

We love you forever.

Janice is survived by her daughters, Amanda Arlene Moss and husband, Anthony, of Winston-Salem and Olivia Jenkins and husband, Kevin, of Crumpler; her grandsons, Hayden and Mason Jenkins and Quintin Moss; and her sister, Patricia ‘Patsy’ Runion and husband, O.W., of Jonesborough, Tenn.  Numerous nieces and nephews also survive.

In addition to her husband, she was preceded by her parents, Paul and Pauline Pierce Sims; sister, Helen  ‘Suzy’ Hilton and her stepfather, William Gibson, also known as Grandpa Bill.

Funeral services for Janice Keller will be conducted Monday afternoon, June 30, 2025 at 2 o’clock at Green Valley Missionary Baptist Church, officiated by Pastor Eric Cornett and Rev. Steven Greene.  Private graveside services will be in the church cemetery.

The family suggests memorials may be sent to the Watauga County Hunger and Health Coalition, 141 Health Center Drive, Boone, NC 28607, or to the Green Valley Missionary Baptist Church. In care of Brenda Potter, 622 Buckeye Rd., Elk Park, NC 28622. 

Online condolences may be shared at the website www.austinandbarnesfuneralhome.com

Austin & Barnes Funeral Home and Crematory is serving the Keller family.

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