Janice Kay Brinkley (née Thomas), age 84, passed away peacefully on December 10, 2025, in Bettendorf, Iowa. Born on April 21, 1941, in Hannibal, Missouri, Janice lived a life rooted in love for her family and the simple joys that brought her happiness.

Janice dedicated many years of her working life to the food service industry. She worked at Ponderosa for several years before retiring from the Hy-Vee food chain Kitchen. Her strong work ethic and commitment to her roles left a lasting impression on those she worked with.

Family was at the heart of Janice’s world. She leaves behind her beloved sister Evelyn G. Thomas-Thurston; her son Kenneth D. Brinkley and his wife Bonnie Brinkley; and her daughter Paula K. Brinkley-Edwards. She was a proud grandmother to Jacob J. Posey, Kathleen “Katie” R. Edwards, Heather Angel, and Christian Brinkley. Janice also held a special place in her heart for her nephew Gregg Thurston and expressed deep gratitude to her nephew Brad W. Thurston and his wife Tammy Thurston for their support during this difficult time.

She was preceded in death by her parents Harold W. Thomas and Edith M. Ellis-McMahan; grandparents Lottie Duff-Ellis and Clyde L. Ellis; brother-in-law Herman “Lanny” Thurston; grandson Mark T. Posey; and special friend Lonny Kirkpatrick.

Janice was deeply loved by her family and cherished the traditions that brought them together. She found great joy in attending family reunions and spending time with her children and grandchildren. Her hobbies reflected a warm spirit—she enjoyed reading, working puzzles, watching western movies with her good friends at Luther Manor, and collecting teddy bears, a pastime that brought comfort and delight throughout the years.

In accordance with Janice’s wishes, a celebration of life will be held later in the spring for family and friends to gather in remembrance of her life, in place of a traditional memorial service.

Memorial contributions may be made to the family or to the Handicapped Development Center.

May Janice’s memory bring comfort to all who knew and loved her.