Janice Lee Stephens

Janice Lee Stephens, 87, of Fort Pierre, passed away Monday, January 12, 2026, at Highmore Health.

Burial will take place at a later date at Black Hills National Cemetery in Sturgis.

Janice was born on February 23, 1938, to Howard Clinton and Ofa Mae (Wharton) Simpson in La Center, Washington. She graduated from Fort Pierre High School in 1956 and later earned a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of South Dakota in 1960.

On June 4, 1961, Janice married Emmett Stephens in Fort Pierre, South Dakota. Throughout her working years, Janice served as a high school English teacher and later worked as an office manager and deduction analyst for Sara Lee Foods.

Following Emmett’s passing in 2001, Janice lived in Arlington, Texas, and Bella Vista, Arkansas, before moving to Rapid City in 2005. She treasured the many friendships she formed in Rapid City, as well as in the other places she called home.

Janice had a love for animals, especially her dogs, Misha and Izzy. She also enjoyed walking, reading, and bowling—activities that brought her both joy and companionship.

She is survived by her sisters, Judy (Larry) Kirkpatrick and JoAnne Knight, both of Pierre; several nieces, nephews; great nieces and nephews; and great-great nieces and nephews.

Jan was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Emmett; sister, Joyce (Dave) Hazeltine; stepfather, Ray Rankin; stepbrother, Rodney Rankin; stepsister, Donna (Paul) Katona; and sisters-in-law, Carolyn Stephens and Melva Glodt.

Luze Funeral Home of Highmore has been entrusted with Janice’s arrangements.