Janet A. Pounds 1948-2025

Janet was born March 26, 1948, in Youngstown, the beloved daughter of Rudy and Lucille Nicalek.

She attended East High School through 1965 and proudly graduated from Wilson High School in 1966. Janet was known for her warmth, generosity and joyful spirit. She had a passion for cooking, golfing, bocce, reading and, most of all, spending cherished time with her family. She was adventurous and never shy to explore new hobbies that piqued her interest. She once was a professional clown, graduating from the school of Tom Foolery and performing as Hotsy Dotsy.

She was very proud of her Polish heritage and enjoyed preparing traditional family recipes such as white borscht (Easter soup) for Easter, pirogies for Christmas and kapusta to ring in each New Year. She is survived by her loving husband, Bill Pounds, and her devoted sons, Eric (Michelle) Pounds and Justin (Ashley McNamara) Pounds. Janet leaves behind her grandchildren, Abbey, Mya, Jayson and Olivia; and great-grandson, Maxwell, all who brought her immense joy. She also leaves behind her cat, Boo, and dog, Hazel.

Janet was preceded in death by her parents; grandparents, John and Theora Loftus, and Rose Nocera; and her dear sister, Phyllis Vitullo.

A woman of deep faith, Janet taught CCD at IHM Church and served as a Eucharistic minister. She also was an active member of St. Mary Church in Mineral Ridge, where she served as an officer in the Women’s Guild.

Janet dedicated 25 years of her career as a switchboard operator and medical records technician at the Youngstown Developmental Center, serving the state of Ohio with care and diligence. After retirement, she continued to give back to the community by volunteering at the Hospice of the Valley and the gift shop at Fellows Riverside Gardens at Mill Creek Park.

Janet had a remarkable gift for making everyone feel welcome and was surrounded by a large circle of devoted friends she cared for deeply. Whether it was through a warm smile, a home-cooked meal or simply lending a listening ear, her kindness touched everyone she met.

Her legacy of compassion and love will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

Friends may call 5 to 7 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 13, 2025, at Lane Funeral Homes, Mineral Ridge Chapel, and 10 to 10:45 a.m. Thursday, Aug. 14, 2025, at St. Mary Catholic Church, Mineral Ridge, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 11 a.m.

(special notice)