Juana "Janie" Mendez, loving wife, mother, sister, aunt, and grandmother passed away Sunday December 17, 2023, at the age of 67.

Janie was born October 19, 1956, to Pedro and Teresa Ramirez.  Janie was raised in Sanger along with her 3 sisters and 2 brothers, eventually graduating from Sanger High School.  Throughout her life Janie was kindhearted, compassionate, with an amazing sense of humor and quick wit.  Janie married Armando Mendez in 1986 and together they raised their 2 children, Xochitl and Daniel.  Throughout their childhood, Janie could always be found supporting them in everything they did. Whether it was school activities, sports, or seeing her children becoming parents of their own, she was always their greatest cheerleader.  The love and devotion to her 7 grandchildren was evident to anyone who knew her.  She found great happiness in being their Nani.  One of her favorite things to do was to tell stories of her family.

Janie's passion for helping care for others was also felt by those around her.  She worked for 40+ years at a care center in her hometown of Sanger.  Day after day Janie would care for the people around her.  Her friends and colleagues fondly recall how she could make them laugh with her quick retorts but also how she was always an open ear for them whenever needed.  Her capacity for kindness and compassion was a quality admired by her family, friends, and those she cared for.

Janie will be forever loved, remembered, and celebrated.   We love you Janie, Mom, Nani, Auntie Chon, Nina and the impression you left on not just our family but the families of those you cared for will never fade or dim.  You will always and forever be in our hearts, guiding us through love.