Janice (Johna) Large

It is with great sadness in our hearts that we announce the peaceful passing

of Janice (Johna) Large on June 29, 2023.

Born July 23, 1951 to Helen and Hank Nivins, Johna spent her early years

in Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio, before the family moved to Medina County. Here

Johna was able to hone her equestrian skills atop her cherished horse,

Ringo, and would go on to teach riding to many in the area. She also

showed horses for many years, never losing her passion for riding.

Johna graduated from Highland High School and earned her BA in

education from The University of Akron. She taught English and French in

the Highland and Cloverleaf school systems with time off in between to

raise her family. Her passion for reading and books led her to a position at

the Brunswick library after retiring from teaching. She always could

recommend the best books!

Johna was also a francophile and very much enjoyed time she was able to

spend in France and loved engaging French speakers she would meet

during the course of her life. She was a wonderful cook, an excellent

seamstress and avid gardener. She loved music, hiking in nearby parks and

was able to excitedly identify many a birdsong. She was also a wonderful

and very thoughtful gift giver. We will cherish the many hand-sewn items

she loved creating for friends and family.

She leaves behind her husband of nearly 50 years, Jerry, sister Julie (Ray)

Kelly, sisters-in-law Lynn Hardesty, Anne (Gerry) Kushner, daughters,

Katie (Allen) Drennen, Beth (Zack) Liesenfeld, grandson, Gabriel, nieces,

nephews, a host of caring friends, and also her beloved pets.

Please remember Johna by planting a flower, taking a walk, a trail ride or

stitching a line—she would love that.

Mass of Christian Burial 11 a.m.at Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church, 1905 Portage Tr. In Cuyahoge Fall, where friends may call 10-11, on August 7, 2023.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Janice (Johna) Large, please visit our floral store.