Deaconess Janice Marie Rawls

Janice Marie Rawls (68) gained her wings on December 23, 2022.

She was born on September 9, 1954, to the late Sadie Mae and Ernest Harvey Sr. in Williston, FL. Janice was united in holy matrimony to her soulmate, the late Benjamin Rawls. She was an exemplary wife who believed in the institution of marriage because she always assumed her responsibilities with courage, grace, dignity, and humility.

 She was a loving and devoted member of New Life Temple Fellowship Inc., of Williston, FL where she served as a deaconess. Deaconess Rawls was a prayer warrior who loved and served the Lord wholeheartedly. Her genuine love, helpful spirit, thoughtfulness, kindness, and willingness to help others is what she is well known for and will be missed. She was a woman of strength, a bold soldier that fought until the end. Her life is a living testimony.

Deaconess Rawls hobbies were fishing, traveling, and being in the fields. Her favorite song was “I’m Free” by Rev. Milton Brunson. She was educated in Levy County Public Schools and graduated from Williston High School in 1972. She was employed with the Marion County School transportation department where she performed as a bus aid.

Left to cherish her memories:  two sons Thyrona Harvey (Tinea), Dytrona Harvey (Shawndae), and daughter Takamya Goldsmith (Ernest) all of Ocala, FL. Fourteen grandchildren and three great grandchildren. Sisters Rebecca Williams, Carolyn Harvey (Earnest), Catheese Harvey, and Voncia Brown all of Williston, FL. A brother, Elder Glenn Gates; Williston, FL., and Demetrius Robinson: Jacksonville, FL. Goddaughter Yvonne Taylor; Ocala,FL . Sister-in-law Claire Hurts (Lee) and best friend Tremese Durden of Ocala, FL. and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends that she truly loved.

She was preceded in death by husband, Benjamin Rawls; parents Sadie Mae and Ernest Harvey; sisters Queen Thomas and Wanda Harvey; brothers Ernest Harvey Jr. and Fredrick Waters.