Janice E. O'Connor

Janice E. O’Connor, 83, of North Richland Hills, Texas, formerly of North Providence, Rhode Island, passed away peacefully on June 3, 2025, after a short but courageous battle with liver cancer. A devoted mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend, Janice’s life was marked by compassion, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to helping others.

Born on May 21, 1942, in Providence, Rhode Island, she was the daughter of Stanley S. O’Connor and Eva (Bellemore) O’Connor. She was married to the love of her life, Thomas Villemaire, until his passing in 2010. Together, they shared a deep and enduring bond of love and mutual respect.

Janice dedicated her life to public service, retiring as a respected probation officer for the State of Rhode Island. Determined and inspiring, she earned her bachelor’s degree from Rhode Island College in 1977—while raising three children as a single parent. Her strength, selflessness, and perseverance shaped the lives of her children and left a lasting impression on everyone who knew her.

A passionate advocate for women’s rights and social causes, Janice’s work inspired the creation of Rhode Island’s Hope Award, honoring individuals who uplift and empower women. She was proud to be its inaugural recipient—a lasting testament to her impact and legacy.

She is survived by her beloved children: Patrick Gilday (and his wife Nikki), Marc Gilday (and his wife Ievgeniia), and Dawn Bilodeau.

She was the proud grandmother of Ashley Gilday, Zachary Bilodeau, Jason Cook, Nicholas Bilodeau, Katherine Cook, and Eric Summers. Her legacy continues through her great-grandchildren: Sage Gilday; Grace, James, Chloe, Noah, Adam, and Liliana Bilodeau; Jaden, Jaxon, Isabella, Giavanna, Jaeda, and Julianna Cook; Selena, Angelina, Ricardo, and Romeo Fiori; and Ezra and Ethan Summers.

Janice also leaves behind her loving siblings: her brother Stephen O’Connor and his wife Simone, and her sister Sue Noel. She was a beloved aunt to Steven O’Connor (and his children Colin and Nora), Danny O’Connor, Remi Noel (and his children Loki and Sophie), Alex Noel (and his children Jenna and Conner), and Eric Noel.

Calling hours will be held from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM on Sunday, June 8, 2025, at Robbins Funeral Home, 2251 Mineral Spring Avenue, North Providence, RI 02911. For more information, please contact 401-231-9307.

Janice will be remembered for her sharp mind, generous heart, and the boundless love she gave her family. Her strength and spirit will continue to live on in all who knew and loved her.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Janice’s memory to Shriners Children’s Hospital or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.