Janice May Mize (formerly Sansburn), lovingly known as Jan to her family and friends, passed away on Sunday, September 6, 2026. Jan lived a life rooted in family, community, hard work, and a deep appreciation for the beauty and simple pleasures around her.

Jan was born at St. Elizabeth Hospital, in Yakima, WA, to Maynard Elden and Mary Nadine Mize and grew up in the Yakima West Valley community. Her childhood was shaped by the close-knit community her parents helped build and support. Her father served as a Grange Master, and her mother was active in women's clubs and 4-H. Together, they supported the local schools, including West Valley High School, and were longtime members of Englewood Christian Church. The values of family, community, and staying connected to others remained a part of Jan throughout her life. As a young girl, Jan loved ballet and acrobatic dancing. She also enjoyed the horses and animals on the family ranch. Those early experiences, surrounded by family, animals, and the outdoors, became cherished parts of the memories she carried with her.

Jan attended Highland High School before graduating from West Valley High School in 1958. She continued her education at Yakima Valley Business College and went on to establish a successful career in real estate, working first as an agent and later as a broker. She worked with several real estate offices over the years, including Yantis Realty and a John L. Scott affiliate office.

Although Jan was proud of her career and accomplishments, the greatest joys in her life came from the people she loved. She was a mother to two daughters, Debbie and Sharon, and her family remained at the heart of her life. She treasured her children, grandchildren, and great-grandson, and the memories they created together will continue to be a lasting part of her family's lives.

Jan also had a special love for the water. She enjoyed boating and fishing throughout Puget Sound and found happiness in the freedom and beauty of being on the water. Her memberships in the West Seattle Yacht Club and Roche Harbor Yacht Club brought her into a community of people who shared that same love of boating and the Northwest.
 

Jan is survived by her daughter, Sharon Nark; her brother, Chuck Mize and his wife, Kathy Kirk; grandchildren Tami Oden and her husband, Tony Oden, Conrad Nark, and Julia Nark and her husband, Lucas Garcia; and her great-grandson, A.J. Oden.

She was preceded in death by her beloved daughter, Deborah Dawn Numoto. Her life touched many people, and she will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.
At Jan's request, no services will be held.