Janice Kay Loyd (69) (Cumbie, Whittle) of Benton, Arkansas, passed away peacefully on July 9, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter, and an unforgettable warmth that touched everyone she met.

Born to Inez and Harold Cumbie on March 8, 1957, in Benton, Arkansas, Janice grew up in a military family. Her childhood had many adventures alongside her brothers, Don and Dennis, and her close-knit circle of friends from Benton High School. It was during these early years that she developed the big personality and welcoming spirit that would define her life. Janice was also well-loved by her colleagues throughout her career, eventually retiring after sixteen years at Almatis.

Janice found a faithful copilot in life when she married Robert. He wasn't just her husband, but her best friend. Together they shared a love for the outdoors, often fishing and casting lines and finding peace on the water. Whether relaxing at the lake with friends and family or spending time at deer camp, Janice was always happiest surrounded by the people she loved. Above all else, Janice adored her family. She was the "Glue" that held many things together, happiest when hosting family suppers or sitting on her porch late into the evening, surrounded by conversation and laughter. As a mother and the absolute best "Nana," she poured her heart into her children and eight grandchildren. She never missed a chance to play with them, and she was always the best cheerleader in the crowd, proudly rooting for her grandkids at their ball games.

Often referred to as the "Most Fun person in the Room", Janice had a distinctive, infectious laugh and a wonderful sense of humor that put others at ease. She embodied the very best qualities of a well-lived life: unconditional love, a great sense of humor, and an unending generosity that could be seen in her care for her family. Janice's bright spirit and huge heart will be dearly missed, but the love she gave so freely will live on in the hearts of her family, friends, and all who were lucky enough to know her.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Emma Inez Cumbie and Harold Ervin Cumbie, and William Frank Whittle (previous husband).

She is survived by her husband, Robert Loyd; brother, Don Cumbie and wife Karen; brother, Dennis Cumbie and wife Kim; son Stephen Buckley Whittle; son Patrick Blake Whittle and wife Laura Ruhl-Whittle; step-children, Amanda Eryn Andres and husband John Andres and Robert Glen Loyd, Jr. and wife Brittany Loyd;  grandchildren, Lily Whittle, Foxley Whittle, Aiden Whittle, Abigail Andres, Drake Andres, Harper Loyd, Brantley Renfro, and Ashlyn Loyd; aunt Ramona Elrod; niece Lara Cumbie Davis and husband James Davis, great nieces, Lily Davis and Peyton Davis.

Visitation will be from 9:00 to 10:00 a.m. Thursday, July 16, at Ashby Funeral Home, with a celebration of her life beginning at 10:00 a.m.