Janice "Jan" Loretta Gum, 88, passed away on September 9, 2023 in the comfort of her sons home. She was surrounded by much love, care, laughter and music. Janice was born on December 16,1934, to the late Hayden and Alma Perkey in Lewis County. She is survived by her son, Daniel Alan Gum and her daughter-in-law Kimberly Lane Gum of Ohio, as well as nieces, nephews and in-law family who loved her dearly.

After graduating from Weston High School in 1952, Janice met her husband and love of her life, Charles Gum. Charlie always said, "I went to her house to see her brother and I left with a wife." They were married for 62 years until Charlie passed away in 2016. Jan stated many times that one of the greatest joys of her life was the arrival of her son, Danny, in February of 1961. She was an extremely devoted mother and wife.

Janice worked for the Agricultural, Stabilization and Conservation Service of the United States Department of Agriculture where she thrived in her 32 years of service. Janice was committed to her career and was promoted multiple times due to her hard work and dedication.

Jan enjoyed being active and spending time with family and friends. She adored her community of Summersville, WV, and the people and friends who lived there. This is evident by the volunteer work that Jan did as board member, secretary, president, vice president and treasurer for numerous organizations such as the Nicholas County Senior Center, Wakoma Chapter of Order of Eastern Star, Nicholas County Fair Association, Nicholas County Park Board,

Summersville Art Group, and the Summersville Woman's Club. In her free time Janice enjoyed playing cards, archery, bowling, square dancing and crafts. She was a master folk painter and was awarded many ribbons for her beautiful work. She also loved flowers and the favorite flower in her garden was irises. Later in her life she found joy in crossword puzzles and was an active participant of the Station Break Senior Center in Mount Vernon, Ohio.

Janice was kind to everyone she met, was quick to smile, and had a cheerful personality. She had a big heart and gave freely to anyone in need. She was a loving daughter, sister and sister-in-law.

We rest in knowing that Jan is enveloped by the love of her husband, siblings, her parents and grandparents who passed before her.

Graveside services will be conducted at 11 a.m. Thursday September 14th in the Walker Memorial Park at Summersville.  The Waters Funeral Chapel in Summersville  is in charge of the arrangements.

In lieu of flowers Jan has asked that donations be made in her honor to the Salvation Army of Mount Vernon, Ohio 206 East Ohio Avenue, Mount Vernon, Ohio 740-392-8716.

Condolences: watersfuneralchapel.com