ATHOL, MA – Janis Lucille Lefebre passed away peacefully on April 1, 2026, surrounded by her children. Born January 15, 1929, to Alphonse and Flora (Mallette) Blanchard. She grew up in Athol and was one of eight children. Janis held many jobs including Cass Toys, Woolworth’s, Teacher’s Aide, Housekeeper and L.S. Starrett’s.
Janis was a Military wife, which led her and her family to Germany, New Jersey and Italy where many lifelong memories were created.
She had many talents including refinishing furniture, sewing, gardening and oil painting. One of her paintings received the honor of first prize at the Franklin County Fair. Janis loved being active, frequenting the Erving Senior Center for exercise classes and Bingo. She managed the Bingo money and loved making witty comments to the winners. Her incredible and quick wit was with her always.
Janis checked off some major bucket list items including skating at Rockefeller Center, Disney World at 80, and skydiving at 87! She loved adventure.
Janis will be deeply missed and is survived by her five children, Robbin Terault, Michele Nichols, Michael Lefebre, his wife Kaley, Lori Craig, her husband Peter, Mark Lefebre, his wife Erin, her grandchildren, Carly, Evan, Ashley, Alex, Tiffany, Sydney, Cooper and Estelle, her brother Roger Blanchard, and many nieces and nephews. Janis was predeceased by her parents, Alphonse and Flora Blanchard, siblings Verda, Nerma (Sister Mary Joan), Vona (Sister Mary Matthew), Nancy, Howard and Lawrence.
In lieu of flowers, please make memorial contributions to Our Lady Immaculate, 192 School St., Athol, MA 01331 or the Erving Senior Center, 1 Care Dr., Erving, MA 01344.
In a time where families need the kindness of angels on earth, Janis’ children were blessed with more than they could have hoped for with the incredible hospice team who served Janis and her children with grace and dignity beyond imagine.
There will be no calling hours. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at Our Lady Immaculate Church, 192 School Street, Athol, on Friday, April 10, 2026, at 11:00 AM. Interment will be at Silver Lake Cemetery following the Mass.
Witty’s Funeral Home, 158 South Main Street, Orange, is assisting the family.
Click here to sign the guest book or honor their memory with flowers, donations, or other heartfelt tributes