Janice A. ‘Big Red’ Clark

1954-2026

Janice A. “Big Red” Clark, 72, passed away peacefully at her residence, surrounded by her loving family, on March 7, 2026. She was born on Feb. 3, 1954, in East Liverpool, Ohio, the daughter of the late Thurman and Grace (Walker) Cornell. Janice was a cherished member of her community and beloved by all who knew her.

Janice dedicated over three decades of her life to the East Liverpool Water Department, where she made lasting contributions while holding various positions. She retired in 2018 as Chief Clerk, leaving behind a legacy of hard work and commitment to public service.

A woman of many talents and interests, Janice loved working crossword puzzles and found joy in crocheting, crafting beautiful blankets for her family. In her earlier years, she was an active member of a local pool league and took delight in occasionally outperforming her husband, Keith, at the game. Janice also cherished participating in the annual Apple Butter Festival, a cherished family tradition passed down through generations. Her faith was a cornerstone of her life. She attended Northside Community Church, and often spent quiet time at home reading her Bible.

With her striking red hair and unmistakable presence, Janice carried a spirit that was as fierce as it was loving. Her larger-than-life personality filled every room, bringing laughter, strength, and a little bit of fire wherever she went. Beneath that bold exterior was a heart completely devoted to her family, whom she loved with everything she had. To them, she was not only strong and spirited, but the steady center of their world

Along with her parents, Janice was preceded in death by her step-daughter, Jessica Sue Chapman, who passed away in 2023.

She is survived by her loving husband, Keith Clark, whom she married on June 9, 1990. Keith gave her the nickname “Big Red” that stuck through the years. It was his playful way of celebrating her vibrant red hair and the even brighter personality that came with it. It wasn’t just a nickname, it was a term of endearment for the woman who filled his life with warmth and color. She also leaves behind her children, Tracy Owens Blankenship of East Liverpool, and Michael (Erin) Owens of California; her cherished grandchildren, Jamie (Chad) Saunders, Michael (Holly) Dawson, Nicolas (Sydney) Blankenship, Abby Owens, Gracy Conrad, Dominik Chapman, and Christian Chapman; and four great-grandchildren. She also leaves behind her siblings: Glenn (Kitti) Cornell of Tennessee, Karen (Cliff) Smith of East Liverpool, Trudy (Mike) McKinnon of East Liverpool, and Debbie (Rusty) Burrows of Louisiana and her sister-in-law, Theresa (Don) Dean and their children.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, March 10, 2026, from 2 to 6 p.m. at the Martin Chapel of Care Funeral & Cremation. The funeral service will follow at 6 p.m., officiated by Pastor Larry Rose of Northside Community Church.

Janice’s warmth, love, and fiery spirit will be missed but fondly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

3/9/26