Shrewsbury – Janice E. (Mullen) Pepper, 83, of Shrewsbury, passed away on June 23, 2021, very peacefully, just the way she led her life. She joins in heaven “the Love of her Life’ for over 63 years, Russell Pepper, who passed away Nov. 27, 2020.
Janice was born in Marlborough, one of six children of James and Josephine (Melanson) Mullen. Janice earned her bachelor’s degree from the Worcester State College, where she was a member of the PSI-CHI National Honor Society.
Janice married Russell in 1957 and spent the next 63 years enjoying a life of love, devotion, travel and dedication before Russell passed away. She continued to live in their home until recently. Janice and Russell always interested in antiques and crafts, owned and operated the Shrewsbury Olde Town Antiques and Crafts Shoppe in the Center of Shrewsbury, many years before retiring.
Janice was blessed with two beautiful children, a son, Timmy, who died in 1975, and a daughter, Suzy. She lived her life totally committed to them both. In addition to her daughter, she is survived by many nieces, nephews, and extended family members who loved her deeply. Three brothers, Charles, Francis and Douglas Mullen, and three sisters, Mary Ripley, Evelyn Sequib, Irene Lawrence, predeceased her.
Janice was a member of Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Church. She enjoyed antiquing with Russell always looking for the special item and playing with her pets.
A period of calling hours will be held on Monday, June 28, from 10:30-11 a.m., in the Mercadante Funeral Home & Chapel, 370 Plantation St., Worcester, followed by a prayer service at 11 a.m. Burial next to Russell will follow in Worcester County Memorial Park in Paxton.
In lieu of flowers memorial contributions in her name can be made to Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Church, 37 Massasoit Rd., Worcester, MA 01604 or the Worcester Animal Shelter, 139 Holden St., Worcester, MA 01606.
