Janice M. Arena

JANICE M. ARENA

October 5, 1942 – January 2, 2022

Janice was a true “southern belle” who never lost her distinctive drawl, even after being a New Yorker since 1963! Born in Louisville, Kentucky, Janice was very proud of her state of origin and always promised herself that she would one day return “down home.”  She and her husband, Bruno, frequently made the 800-mile drive to Louisville to visit her siblings, especially her big sister JoAnn, with whom she remained extremely close throughout the years. Many a dinner conversation would transform into a discussion about the best bourbons in the world originating from Kentucky. Each year, just before the running of the Kentucky Derby, the singing of the state song, “My Old Kentucky Home,” would still bring a tear to her eye.

As much as she loved her Kentucky roots, Janice also loved games of chance. She was well versed and competitive in any game; she loved the slot machines in Atlantic City, she was always up for a Las Vegas Night, a Night at the Races, or a Friday poker game at the local Knights of Columbus, but most of all, Janice LOVED BINGO. Wednesday nights were strictly off limits for anything else! To be fair, however, Janice was a regular parishioner at OLP church, and she volunteered for many years at the church carnivals…. as a blackjack dealer in the casino.

More than Kentucky, more than gambling, and even more than bingo, Janice loved her family, especially her grandchildren. Christopher, Marie, Michelle, Anthony, Angelina, and Michael were always her pride and joy. “Grandma” was always happy to see them or to hear about their accomplishments as they grew from babies into the people they are today. “Grandma” was always available to lend a hand when needed and she never refused when asked.

Janice was a fun-loving person, she was not vain, she did not have monetary wealth, but she was rich with the love of family and friends. She was content to be herself and knew southern hospitality, which made her a natural person who made everyone feel at home.