Janice Turner

In Loving Memory of Janice Burgess Turner

March 17, 1937 – October 30, 2025

Janice Burgess Turner, beloved daughter, sister, mother, aunt, and grandmother, passed away peacefully at the age of 88. She was born on March 17, 1937, in Headland, Alabama, to the late Fred Douglas and Laura Ann Bradshaw, whose love and guidance shaped the foundation of her remarkable life. Janice’s journey was a radiant testament to resilience, grace, and determination.

Her faith was a cornerstone of her life. Baptized July 1947 at Mt. Olive Baptist Church under the leadership of Rev. H. E. Owens, she later joined Vernon Park Church of God in Lynwood, Illinois, under the leadership of Rev. Jerald January. Janice remained spiritually grounded throughout her journey.

A proud graduate of Cass Technical High School in Detroit, Michigan, Janice began her professional life at the Children’s Hospital. In 1960, she moved to Chicago, Illinois, where she continued to build a life rooted in hard work and ambition. Upon arriving in Chicago, she began her career at Goldblatts, serving as a secretary in the credit department for three years. Her career flourished in the banking industry, where she spent 24 years at Morgan Chase Bank, rising from a collection representative to Assistant Treasurer before retiring in 1992. Throughout her career, she earned numerous professional certificates, including recognition from The Business Woman's Training Institute of New York for her excellence in managing people and mastering powerful business writing.

Janice’s entrepreneurial spirit led her to establish Mistee's and Classy Lady Boutique in 1993—cherished businesses she ran with elegance and pride until their closing in late 2021.

Janice was married twice—first to George Burgess, with whom she had two sons, the late Darryl Burgess and Terrance Burgess. In May 1977, she remarried Robert Turner, with whom she shared many years.

She will be remembered for her love of travel, her impeccable style, and her passion for shopping. Janice’s warmth, wisdom, and unwavering strength touched all who knew her.

She leaves behind her devoted son, Terrance Burgess; her loving sister, Ilene Morgan (Lorenzo); her beloved granddaughter, Brianna Burgess; and her precious great-granddaughter, Nala. Janice’s memory will also be treasured by a host of nieces, nephews, extended family, and dear friends whose lives she touched with her warmth, wisdom, and unwavering strength. Her legacy of love, perseverance, and grace will continue to inspire all who knew her.

MESSAGE FROM LORNA MORGAN, NIECE:

Aunt Janice was truly one of a kind—stylish, bold, fun, and no-nonsense. She brought laughter and warmth wherever she went and was the aunt everyone could count on for a good time. I’ll forever cherish the memories we made together as roommates on bus trips, our lunches, and our casino adventures. Aunt Janice always made me feel right at home whenever I visited. Her adventurous spirit as a world traveler and her deep love for shopping will live on in me and my sister. Aunt Janice’s presence will be deeply missed, but the love and special moments we shared will always stay with me. I love you. Lorna