Janice Pauline McNamara (Nana and OtherBama) passed away on July 10th, 2022, at her home in Hood River, Oregon, at the age of 79. Janice was born December 7, 1942, in Boston, MA, to Herb and Helen Olofsson. She had two younger siblings, a brother, Barry, and a sister, Carol. She was married to Gale McNamara for 54 years, who still resides in Hood River. She lived in Massachusetts, New Hampshire, England, and New Jersey, settling in Hood River, close to her middle son Derek and his family. She has an older son, Kevin, living in Boulder, CO, and her youngest son, Douglas, lives in Hood River. She has three grandchildren: Riley McNamara lives in Hood River, and James and William McNamara live in Golden, Colorado. Her family was her world, particularly her grandchildren, and she did much to raise them and make them into the people they are today. She has numerous nieces and nephews and grand-nieces and nephews.

Janice was the family's matriarch, running the household and ensuring the family had what they needed. Janice was a strong, independent woman who showed love and kindness to all. She always thought of others first and making family and friends happy. Many of her grand-nieces and children of friends called her "Princess Janice" because of the beautiful celebrations and magical occasions she made for everyone during Christmas and other holidays and occasions. Also, her love of children brought out the beauty and magic she radiated as a person.

She cherished being in nature, the beach, forests, and fields. Her favorite place in the world was her Grandfather's (Pappy) House in Holland, Vermont, where she spent much time as a child and an adult in the forest and fields, riding tractors and horses and helping her Grandmother and mother cook. She was a gourmet chef and hosted many family gatherings, weddings, and other get-togethers, making truly wonderful celebrations for all her family and friends. She was also an avid gardener and grew beautiful flowers and other plants. Her creative talents spread far and wide, and she loved painting pictures of flowers she grew and saw. She knitted and sewed beautiful clothing for her children, grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and all her family and friends. She made Halloween costumes for her children and grandchildren and spectacular birthday cakes.

Janice gave back to the community also. She was deeply involved in bringing refuge families to this country and made many lifelong friendships through this activity. Janice cared deeply for the world and had an open mind about everyone and everything. She gave without asking in all her work. She will be missed in this world.

The memorial service will be held back in Massachusetts at a later date. In lieu of flowers, please make contributions to the Aplastic Anemia, MDS Foundation: https://www.aamds.org/donate.

Arrangements are under the direction of Anderson's Tribute Center • 1401 Belmont Avenue, Hood River, Oregon 97031.  Visit www.AndersonsTributeCenter.com to leave a note of condolence for the family.