Janice Ott

Janice Margaret Ott, 76, of Sinking Spring, passed away on June 9th, 2021 at the Reading Hospital after an eight yearlong battle with cancer. Born in London, England on August 10th, 1944, she was daughter to the late Harry Gathergood and Gladys(Blythe) Gathergood. She was a beloved wife to Thomas Ott of Sinking Spring. They married in Tokyo, Japan, and shared 54 years of marriage. In addition to her husband, Janice is survived by her son, Christopher, of Reading, PA, her sister Christine Loftis and her mother Gladys.

After completing her secondary studies in London, England, Janice was the Secretary to Commercial Attache for the British Embassy in Japan. Later she was an Administrative Assistant to the Wilson Athletic Director for 33 years. She was then inducted into the Wilson Sports Hall of Fame for being instrumental in the growth and management of the Wilson Jr. High Wrestling tournament. Janice was one of the first women EMTs in Berks County and was also the first woman to join the Western Berks Ambulance crew. She rode the ambulance for nearly 15 years. Until her retirement, Janice was an active member of the West Lawn United Methodist Church. She and Tom then moved to Delaware where she found spiritual home at the Bethel UM Church in Lewes, DE.

Janice was a lover of animals and nature including her dogs, all of which had been named Tansy, her cats, and the gardens she cultivated.  These things were all part of what brought her peace and serenity in her years with Thomas.

A Celebration of Life will be held at West Lawn United Methodist Church, 15 Woodside Ave., Reading PA, 19609 on Saturday June 19th, 2021 at 12:00pm along with a 1:00pm service. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Animal Rescue League of Berks County, 58 Kennel Rd., Birdsboro PA, 19508.  Bean Funeral Homes, Sinking Spring, is in charge of arrangements.  Online condolences may be made to www.beanfuneralhomes.com .