Janice Lee Mcinally

Janice Scharra McInally, 61, of  Urbandale, IA, passed away on October 5, 2024. She triumphed over cancer for thirteen years and is now resting in God's loving arms.

Janice was born on September 20, 1963 to Patricia and Joseph Scharra in Akron, OH. She was a graduate of the University of Akron, where she met her devoted husband Dave and was active in Alpha Gamma Delta sorority (serving as President), the Panhellenic Council, and many other aspects of student life.

She began her professional career at Allegheny College in Meadville, PA, serving primarily in the Admissions and Development Offices for 25 years. During this time, Janice and Dave welcomed their children Will and Susannah, the source of her greatest joy throughout her life. Janice and her family were also active in First Presbyterian Church and involved in numerous community organizations.

In 2013, Janice and Dave moved to Cedar Rapids, IA, where she served as the "First Spouse" of Coe College. Janice made the role her own, dedicating herself to many forms of service to Coe and the local community, serving countless local organizations and bringing joy wherever she went. In recognition of her constant and cheerful devotion, the Coe College Center for Health and Society bears her name. Upon retirement, she and Dave relocated to Urbandale to be near family, including their first grandchild, Nathaniel. They became active in Heartland Presbyterian Church, a loving and welcoming community perfectly suited to Janice's generous spirit.

All who knew Janice describe her as joyful, kind, and optimistic. She believed in being a strong leader through selflessness, warmth, a positive spirit, and especially happiness. She opened her home and her heart to everyone. Her joy shone brightly in all times and all places. And when it was time to rest, she treasured the simple things: a cozy home, needlecraft, baking cookies, and above all, being with her family.

Janice is survived by her loving husband Dave, her son Will McInally (Liz Dean), her daughter Susannah Johnson (Trey), and her grandson Nathaniel Johnson and his baby brother, due to join the world and the family next month. She is also survived by her brother Mike Scharra (Sherry), sister Judy Baxtresser (Earl), and many loving in-laws, nieces, and nephews, along with their children.

A service of remembrance and celebration of life will take place at Heartland Presbyterian Church in Clive, IA, on November 2 at 11:00 a.m. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that those who wish to make gifts in honor of Janice consider Heartland Presbyterian Church (hpcusa.org), Coe College (coe.edu), or another organization of your choice dedicated to serving others in a spirit of love, happiness, and community. That's what Janice did. May our families and world be filled with hearts as pure as hers.