Janice B. LaRochelle

DANVERS – Janice Whateley LaRochelle, 78, of Danvers, passed away Monday, August 24th, 2026 at Kaplan Family Hospice House, surrounded by her loving family. 

Janice was the daughter to the late Fredrick and Dorothy (Thomas) Whateley of Boston. She is survived by her beloved daughter, Jessica Frost, of Maryland and sister, Patricia Burke, of Ipswich.

Janice, a woman of remarkable warmth, humor, and vibrant spirit, passed away following a life dedicated to her family and community. Known for her larger-than-life personality and generous heart, Janice was a compassionate champion for the underdog.

Family was the cornerstone of Janice’s life. She was a deeply devoted mother to her daughter, Jessica, and cherished her role as a grandmother. She was a devoted sister to Patricia.

Janice graduated from Stoneham Memorial High School with the Class of 1966 and pursued her passion for the beauty industry at cosmetology school after graduation. Her professional career spanned more than 40 exceptional years at Boston Beauty, where her talent and leadership propelled her to an executive role. She remained dedicated to her work there until January of this year.

Committed to her community and her circle of friends, Janice also volunteered as a tour guide at Crane Castle and enjoyed the camaraderie she experienced working part-time at Home Goods.

Beyond her professional endeavors, Janice explored many passions. She was a voracious reader, a formidable Scrabble champion, and an avid world traveler. Together with her sister, Janice explored Switzerland, Italy, London, and beyond, and held a special affection for Mexico, visiting multiple times with her daughter.

Janice was also an accomplished photographer and enjoyed spending time in nature, particularly photographing in and around New England. Always an animal lover at heart, she loved creatures big and small and surrounded herself with beloved companion dogs throughout her life.

Janice was perhaps best known as a beauty and fashion enthusiast and was uniquely celebrated for her unmatched wardrobe, jewelry and personal style. She received compliments from strangers everywhere she went.

She is survived by her loving daughter, Jessica Frost, and her husband, Adam; her cherished grandchildren, Hannah and Asher; her sister, Patricia (Whateley) Burke of Ipswich; and her nephew, Matthew Burke of Ipswich.

In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her brother Thomas Whateley.

ARRANGEMENTS: A Celebration of Life will be held for Janice in the spring of 2027. Contributions may be made in Janice’s memory to the ALS Foundation at www.als.org.  Arrangements by O’Donnell – Cremations – Funerals – Celebrations, 167 Maple St., DANVERS. To share a memory or offer a condolence, please visit www.odonnellfuneralservice.com.