Janice Sue Finks

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the peaceful passing of our beloved Janice Sue Finks, 77, of Corvallis, Oregon on May 24, 2026, while surrounded by the love of her family. She was born on July 7, 1948 in Harris County, Texas, and later had homes in Dayton, Texas , Camdenton, Missouri, and Corvallis, Oregon. Jan was preceded in death by her parents Gerald B. McClendon and Dorothy Louise Swann McClendon. Jan was a fiery redhead who loves her family and friends fiercely. She leaves behind her beloved husband Stephen C. Finks, her lifelong partner and love of her life; their devoted and cherished daughter Wendy Finks Schmolzi and her loving partner Heather Leigh, her loyal son-in-law Russell Schmolzi, her buddy and incredible grandson Adam “Squirt” Schmolzi, her beautiful granddaughter, Lanie “Red” Schmolzi with her son, Braxton, and her little ball of joy and faithful pup, Gidget. She embraced her siblings as if they were her very own. As such, she is also survived by her steadfast and wise baby brother Carl Craig McClendon and his unwavering wife Joyce; and her life long best friend and little sister, Mary Ellen Mayes and her charismatic husband Michael; as well as two nieces, Allison and Adrienne two nephews, Jeffrey and Mark, and their families. Jan was a beautifully intuitive and deeply insightful spirit, whose presence and guidance enriched the lives of family, friends, coworkers, and acquaintances alike. She loved life and was always up for an adventure, as her dearest friends, Lois Curl and Cheryn Ryan, could attest. Her positivity was profound, dependable and inspiring. Her sense of humor and laugh were comforting and infectious, even in difficult times, as she always added, “You have to have a sense of humor,” and “This too shall pass!” She fought for equal rights and equal wages for women working in the oil industry and was a respected leader in her field. As well, she organized toy drives and assistance to service families during the holidays and in times of need. She never turned away a child or an animal in need of care and compassion. She was an artist at heart and an author, publishing a children’s book, Rainy Day Magic, in honor of her grandson, Adam. She loved her flowers, gardening, painting, and decorating her home and others’ homes, as well. She also loved music, especially Roy Orbison, cooking, baking, (famous for her chocolate pie) and dancing in the kitchen at big family events, but her favorite activity was dining out with the occasional Bloody Mary in hand! Jan will be remembered with love and affection by all who knew her and by those of us who continue to aspire to her grace, strength, generosity and beauty.

Janice Sue Finks

July 7, 1948 - May 24, 2026