Janice D. (Newell) Napell

1949 - 2026

Janice D. (Newell) Napell, age 77, of Hays, passed away on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, at Wesley Medical Center in Wichita.

She was born on January 9, 1949, in Stockton, Kansas, to Oliver and Velma (Manny) Newell and was one of seven children.

On October 26, 1974, she was united in marriage to Donald (Nipple) Napell in Damar, Kansas. He preceded her in death on November 19, 2020.

Janice graduated from Palco High School in 1968. She held many jobs over the years, often more than one at a time. She retired from FHSU at age 71 in January 2020.

She is survived by her son, Adam (Nicole) Napell of Hays, and beloved grandchildren, Callum, Camden, Liam and Jamison; her brothers, Wayne Newell of Hays, Allen Newell of Stilwell, and Roger (Kim) Newell of Salina; her sisters, Joan Peterson of Salina and Cinta Foster of Louisiana; and her goddaughters, Vivian and Gabriella Aubel, along with numerous nieces, nephews, and greats.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Don; her parents, Oliver and Velma Newell; her brother, Loren Newell; and dear family friend Jean Gruse.

Memorial services will be held Saturday, February 28, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Hays Family Worship Center, 1651 Yocemento Avenue, Hays, Kansas 67601. The family will receive guests from 10:00 a.m. until service time at the church. Memorial visitation will be held Friday, February 27, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Keithley Funeral Homes and Crematory – Brock’s Chapel, 2509 Vine Street, Hays, Kansas 67601.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are suggested to Ellis County Fire Department Company No. 5 or to the CCLJ Education Fund (for her grandchildren). Checks may be made payable to the organization of your choice.

Condolences may be left in the guestbook at www.keithleyfuneralchapels. com or by email at keithleyfuneralhomes@ gmail.com.