Janice (Durkin) Harbec, of Willimantic, CT, passed away peacefully on May 15, 2026, at the age of 77. Born on October 26, 1948, in Cleveland, Ohio, later relocating to Detroit, Michigan and eventually moving to Willimantic, Connecticut, Janice lived a life centered around family, love, and lasting friendships. Janice graduated from Windham High School, Class of 1966, where she met the love of her life, Roger Harbec, as well as many lifelong friends she cherished throughout the years, especially Joan Marrotte. She was predeceased by her beloved husband of 55 years, Roger Harbec; her brother Danny; and her parents, Annabelle (Nopwasky) and William Durkin. In their early years together, Roger and Janice loved spending weekends at the beach, creating memories with family and friends. In later years, they traded sandy weekends for time spent at home grilling by their pool, where they enjoyed relaxing and gathering with loved ones. Janice loved hosting parties and holiday gatherings and was happiest when surrounded by family, good food, and laughter. She also enjoyed cooking, reading, macramé, gardening, and caring for her many houseplants. Among the many pets Janice loved over the years, her dogs Scooby and Shadow held a special place in her heart. She rarely missed her favorite soap operas or cooking shows and created a warm and welcoming home for everyone around her. Janice was a proud parishioner of St. Mary’s Church in Willimantic.

Janice was a devoted stay-at-home mother for many years before later working at Ace Printery in Willimantic, Franco’s Bakery in Willimantic and OTY Law Firm in Hartford, where she built many lasting friendships. She is lovingly survived by her children: daughter Lisa Vivenzio and her husband Vincent of Chester, New Jersey; son Douglas Harbec and his wife Laura of East Hampton, Connecticut; and daughter Summer Harbec and her fiancé Ray Fournier of Windham, Connecticut. Janice also leaves behind her cherished grandchildren, Leo Harbec, Lance Harbec, Annabella Vivenzio, and Savannah Shea, who brought tremendous joy to her life. She is survived by her sisters, Patricia Durkin, Cynthia Placido, and Melissa Cusanelli, and by her brother, Kenneth Durkin. She also leaves behind many beloved nieces and nephews, aunts and uncles in Pennsylvania, and brothers- and sisters-in-law in Connecticut, including Albert and Linda Harbec, Francis Harbec and Sean Peebles, Alan and Linda Harbec, and Kenneth Harbec. Janice will be remembered for her warmth, devotion to her family, strength, and kind heart. She will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

Janice’s family will receive relatives and friends on Monday, June 8, 2026, from 5:00 to 7:00 PM at Potter Funeral Home, 456 Jackson Street, Windham CT. A graveside service will be held on Tuesday, June 9, 2026, at 11:00 AM at St Joseph Cemetery, Windham.

In lieu of flowers donations to Tri-County Greenhouse (290 Middle Turnpike Mansfield Depot, CT 06251) would be appreciated in honor of her Lil’ Patty, a 30-year retiree of the Greenhouse. Tri-County Greenhouse provides work experiences to the intellectually disabled.