Shrewsbury – Janice M. Harpin (Costine) (Jan) passed away peacefully in her home Monday morning, Nov. 7, 2016 after a brief illness.
She was born in Arlington in 1940. Her parents, John and Ruth Costine of Shrewsbury, predeceased her. She and her husband had recently moved to Shrewsbury in July after living in Plymouth for the past 20 years.
She was the beloved wife of 57 years to George W. Harpin; devoted sister to Patricia Brennan of Advance, N.C., and an extraordinary mother of eight children, Deborah Harper of Boylston, Michelle McConnell of Hudson, Laurie Cyr, Kathleen Fiorentino, Patricia Schofield, all of Clinton, George Harpin of Marlborough, Jeffrey Harpin of Shrewsbury, and John Harpin of Barre. She was a loving grandmother to 18 grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren. She also leaves behind many nieces and nephews and her beloved dog Lizzy.
George and Janice raised their eight children in Marlborough before moving to Plymouth full time after Janice’s retirement from teaching cosmetology at Assabet Valley Technical High School, where she taught for 18 years.
Janice was a truly dedicated mother, grandmother, and friend to many. Jan was well known for her quick wit and fun loving sense of humor. Her beautiful bright blue eyes sparkled when she smiled and her laughter was contagious.
Janice and her sister Patti enjoyed running a home decor boutique, “Lizzy Tish,” located in Plymouth. Janice loved to knit hats and sweaters for her loved ones and was part of a knitting club. She loved to share a good gab with her friends and family and was well known for her keen sense of being aware of what was “really going on.” She enjoyed tending to her garden with her husband, cooking and spending time with her family. Her presence will be greatly missed in our lives.
Calling hours will be Thursday, Nov. 10, from 5-8 p.m., at the William R. Short and Son Funeral Home (www.shortfuneral.com), 95 West Main St., Marlborough. Her funeral Mass will be held Friday, Nov. 11, at 10 a.m., at St. Mary’s Parish in Shrewsbury, followed by a reception at the Marlborough Country Club.
Donations can be made to the Salvation Army in lieu of flowers.
