Janice Anita Bedford

Janice Anita Blackwood Bedford, 77, passed away on November 6, 2022 in her hometown of Abilene, Texas.

Funeral services will be held at 10:00am on November 19, 2022 at First Presbyterian Church with Pastor Clifford Stewart officiating. Services are under the direction of The Hamil Family Funeral Home, 6449 Buffalo Gap Road.

Janice was born in Abilene to Len and Gladys Blackwood on February 16, 1945.  She went to Abilene Cooper High School and graduated from Abilene Christian University before receiving her Master’s degree from Texas Christian University. She served as a devoted English teacher in the Fort Worth and Birmingham school districts. In 2001, she founded and worked as the Executive Director of the nonprofit organization, “Play by the Rules” at the Alabama Center for Law and Civic Education. The goal of the award-winning program was to teach law to youth, develop their sense of civic responsibility, and provide them with the tools to prevent crime, save lives and build safer communities. 

A woman of many talents, Janice served as a Deacon in her church, was a dedicated volunteer in many worthwhile organizations helping those less fortunate, and most notably an accomplished vocalist, performing for many years as a member of the Chorus Abilene vocal ensemble.

Janice was preceded in death by her parents and husband Bill Bedford (m. June 17, 2006).

Janice is survived by her daughter Chae Lin Lim and husband Ian of Dallas, TX with grandchildren Samuel, Elizabeth and Rebecca, son Ryan Christian Loomis and wife Wendy from Alabama with grandchildren Jeremy and Madison, brother James Blackwood and wife Susan of San Antonio. She also leaves behind four devoted step children and many adoring grandchildren.

In memory of Janice (Blackwood) Bedford – members of the family request that donations be made to support the Janice (Blackwood) Bedford Endowed Choir Scholarship at Abilene Christian University. Please make gifts payable to Abilene Christian University and directed to Gift Records, ACU Box 29132, Abilene, TX 79699 or online at acu.edu/giveonline.

The family of Janice wishes to extend our sincere thanks to Samuel and Jean Cook, special caregivers Amobi and Angelica, Hendrick Hospice Care, Karen Sloan, Angela Mertz, Peggy Shepherd, Tommy Stone, and Scott Berry.