Janice F. Hurst Obituary
Janice (Abrahamson) Hurst, a beacon of kindness and warmth, passed away peacefully on Saturday, December 28, 2024, surrounded by her family.
Born on June 12, 1945, in Gloucester, Massachusetts, to the late James and Katherine (Barry) Abrahamson, Janice was shaped by the close-knit community and enduring values of her family. On September 25, 1965, Janice married the late James Hurst, her steadfast partner in love and laughter. Together, they built a beautiful life filled with cherished memories with their three wonderful children and four grandchildren who became her pride and joy.
Janice's generous heart and genuine connection with others showed in every aspect of her life, particularly during her years working at beloved Gloucester establishments. She wasn't just a friendly face; she was a source of light, always ready with a kind word or a helping hand, embodying the very best of community spirit.
Her joy extended to life's little pleasures—chatting with friends, enjoying evenings on the boulevard, discovering new restaurants, and knitting gifts for loved ones. She treasured her mornings with the 'coffee shop group,' where warm conversation brightened her days. A sharp wit and sense of fun also made her a favorite companion on trips to the casino.
Above all, Janice loved her family and close friends fiercely and unconditionally. Her home was a haven of warmth and welcome, where her children, grandchildren, and extended family knew Janice is survived by her son, James Hurst Jr., and his partner, Lise; her daughters, Keri Russo and Bethany Hurst, and her partner, Brett; her beloved grandchildren, Katie and her fiancé, Kurt Baltier, Emily, Megan, and Peter Russo; and her sister, Nancy Santos. She also leaves behind her treasured niece, Jill, and her husband, John Naves, as well as many more nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends who were like family to her.
Janice is survived by her son, James Hurst Jr., and his partner, Lise; her daughters, Keri Russo and Bethany Hurst, and her partner, Brett; her beloved grandchildren, Katie and her fiancé, Kurt Baltier, Emily, Megan, and Peter Russo; and her sister, Nancy Santos. She also leaves behind her treasured niece, Jill, and her husband, John Naves, as well as many more nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends who were like family to her.
Janice was predeceased by her loving husband, James Hurst; her parents, Katherine (Barry) and James Abrahamson; her son-in-law, Peter Russo; her parents-in-law, John W. and Mary (Cavanaugh) Hurst; her sisters-in-law, Mary Muise, Patricia Johnson, Shirley Moore, and Judy Cocoran; and her brothers-in-law, John Hurst and Joe Santos.
Janice's kindness will forever inspire all who knew her, a shining reminder that a life lived with love is a life well lived.
Her Funeral Mass will be celebrated in St. Ann's Church, Holy Family Parish on Friday, January 3, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. Visiting hours in the Greely Funeral Home, 212 Washington Street, Gloucester will be held on Thursday, January 2, from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m.
