Bertha Janice

Young

Bertha "Janice" Young was born on June 25, 1933, in Grand Rapids, Michigan, to Charles and Pansy Mickens. She grew up alongside her two sisters, Saundra Flemming and Evelyn Mosely-Patten, and her brother, David Mickens. On October 10, 2026, Janice peacefully departed this life in Grand Rapids, Michigan, at the age of 93, leaving behind a remarkable legacy of family, faith, service, and achievement.

Janice attended Henry School and graduated from Central High School in 1951. She went on to build an extraordinary career, breaking barriers and achieving several historic firsts for African Americans in Grand Rapids. In 1952, she became the first African American to work in the accounting department at Michigan Bell. In 1956, she became the first African American to work for the Friend of the Court in the county building, and in 1965, she became the first African American to work in the offices at Reynolds Metals.

Throughout her career, Janice held numerous administrative and leadership positions, including serving as office manager for Model Cities and assistant director of the Economic Development Corporation, where she worked closely with minority contractors and the Small Business Administration. She also worked with Kent CAP, Baxter Community Center, and New Hope Baptist Church. In 1981, she joined the Inter-City Christian Federation (ICCF), retiring in 1997 before returning part-time to continue serving the community.

In addition to her professional accomplishments, Janice was a dedicated businesswoman. She carried on the family catering business established by her mother, Pansy, and her aunt, Firdonia. For more than 30 years, Janice operated the business, continuing a cherished family tradition of bringing people together through food, hospitality, and service.

Beyond her family and professional accomplishments, Janice valued the friendships she built throughout her life. She was a member of a women's group known as the Pacesetters, alongside her dear friends Irene Bibbie and Betty Rhodes. The group represented a special sisterhood and reflected the importance of friendship, connection, and community in Janice's life. These lasting friendships were among the many meaningful relationships she treasured over the years.

Janice also had a lifelong love of sports, particularly basketball, softball, and bowling. In 1957, she made history as the first African American to bowl in the Women's City County League. She remained active in bowling for many years and served as secretary for numerous leagues.

Faith was an important part of Janice's life. A lifelong member of Messiah Missionary Baptist Church, she was baptized at age nine by Rev. Albert C. Keith. Over the years, she served her church in many capacities, including as secretary, choir member, pianist, kitchen committee member, and trustee. Her dedication to her church and community reflected her lifelong commitment to helping others.

Above all, Janice cherished her family. She was the proud mother of six children: Craig Johnson, Cheryl Johnson, Bryant Johnson, Donald "Kelly" Young, Wanda Young, and Michele "Micki" (Clemon) Gibson.

Her legacy continues through her nine grandchildren: Terra Johnson, Tiffany Johnson, Sheree Young, Briana Johnson, Janae Young, Kyndal Gibson, Jalen Gibson, Chantel Barnes, and Elijah Walcott; and nine great-grandchildren: Zyair Whitfield, Nakhi Young, Janiya Prater, Zaria Whitfield, Na'Kayla Willis, Na'Khyla Willis, Jace Whitfield, Ivreana Johnson, and Alora Young. She also leaves a host of nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.

Janice shared a special bond with her niece and goddaughter, Leslie Breggins, the daughter of her sister, Evelyn. Their relationship was one of love and family connection, made even more meaningful by Janice's role as Leslie's godmother. Leslie held a special place in Janice's life, and their bond was a cherished part of her family legacy.

Janice Young lived a life of determination, grace, and purpose. She was a trailblazer in her career, a devoted servant of her community, a hardworking businesswoman, and the foundation of a family spanning generations. Her contributions to Grand Rapids and the lives she touched will not be forgotten.

Her life was a blessing, her memory a treasure, and her legacy will live on through the generations she leaves behind.