Janice Johnson McIntosh

October 10, 2026

Janice Lutelle Johnson McIntosh, 79, of Charlotte, North Carolina, passed away peacefully on October 10, 2026, a few days after suffering a stroke. She leaves behind a legacy of immense joy, deep friendships, and a lifelong commitment to caring for others.

Janice was born on August 15, 1947, in Henderson, NC, to the late Melvin Badger Johnson and Lutelle Haney Johnson. As one of six daughters, she lived in various areas across the Southeast during her father’s career with General Motors. She spent her high school years in Mount Holly, NC, where she brought energy and school spirit to the community as a Majorette, Cheerleader and a member of the Tennis team.

Dedicated to helping others, Janice built a fulfilling career as a Registered Nurse. She worked in the fast-paced emergency room at Mercy Hospital and was incredibly proud of being asked to establish the foundational nursing service at the Mecklenburg County jail - a testament to her professional skill and compassion.

Janice was a deeply loving and faithful mother to her two children, Mel and Jennifer. Throughout their childhood, she was their biggest champion, reliably and happily taking Jennifer to endless swim meets and Mel to opportunities to explore sports as well as the arts.

In 1998, Janice married Maurice McIntosh, beginning a vibrant nearly 30-year chapter of love and adventure. Maurice fondly referred to Janice as his "social director," a title she earned fully as they explored the world together. Their travels took them to Russia, China, Australia, and New Zealand, alongside countless European river cruises that they enjoyed until they jokingly claimed they "ran out of rivers." Closer to home, they navigated the waters on their 36-foot Monk Trawler. At every port, Janice proudly wore the title of "Co-Captain," earning the admiration of fellow male captains who often marveled at how Maurice convinced such a wonderful partner to navigate the open waters with him.

Janice’s warmth extended into her community and social circles. She was an avid reader and enjoyed the camaraderie of several book clubs. For decades, she acted as the social heart of the Builders’ Sunday School Class at Myers Park United Methodist Church, organizing outings that brought people closer together. After moving to Southminster, her active spirit never waned; she enthusiastically served on the Health Committee, always looking for ways to contribute.

Janice spread joy to everyone she met, nourishing deep, lifelong friendships and cherishing her role as a grandmother.

She was predeceased by her parents and three of her sisters, Susan J. Hart, Deborah Johnson, and Cynthia J. Harris.

Janice is survived by her devoted husband, Maurice McIntosh; her children, Mel Lewis (Natalia) of Glendale, CA, and Jennifer Lewis Penzell of Vail, CO; her sisters, Pamela J. Angerholzer (Max) and Valerie J. Aughton (Bill) and her four cherished grandchildren, Hailey Penzell, Liam Penzell, Ripley Lewis, and Logan Lewis. Other survivors include her brother-in-law Rodney Harris and close family members Allison and Wayne Baird, Scott and Kimberly Sherrill and Mickey and Ashley Sherrill.

A memorial service is scheduled for 11:00 AM on November 5, 2026, at Myers Park United Methodist Church a reception will follow in Jubilee Hall.

Memorials may be sent to Myers Park United Methodist Church, 1501 Queens Road, Charlotte, NC 28207 or the James K. Polk Lodge #759, 900 Hill St, Pineville, NC 28134.

Arrangements are in the care of Kenneth W. Poe Funeral & Cremation Service, 1321 Berkeley Ave., Charlotte, NC, 28204 (704) 641-7606.  Online condolences can be shared at www.kennethpoeservices.com.

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