Janice Dee Carletti, 89, of Sapulpa, Oklahoma, passed away peacefully of natural causes on July 10, 2025, surrounded by her loving family.
Janice was born on January 2, 1936, in Weleetka, Oklahoma, to J.D. Lynch and Beaulah Lynch. She was the eldest of six children, a role she embraced with leadership and love from an early age. Her strong work ethic and determination were evident throughout her life, beginning with her graduation as salutatorian from Hartshorne High School.
After high school, Janice began her professional journey with the FBI in Washington, D.C., serving as a fingerprint specialist. She later became a TWA stewardess, traveling extensively and creating lasting memories before returning to Oklahoma to marry her high school sweetheart, John F. Carletti. Together, they raised five children.
As her family grew, Janice lived in Ohio, Tennessee, and Okmulgee before settling permanently in Sapulpa. There, she became an active member of the community. She was involved with the Camp Fire Girls and was instrumental in bringing organized girls’ softball to Sapulpa, where she served as a coach. She later became a respected soccer coach and referee and helped promote competitive swimming in the area. She was also a longtime standing member of the Sapulpa Salvation Army Women’s Auxiliary, where she supported numerous charitable efforts and community programs.
Janice also managed rental properties and took a hands-on approach to refurbishing homes. Self-taught in painting, wallpapering, and home repair, she brought creativity and resilience to everything she did.
In her later years, Janice traveled extensively, ultimately visiting all seven continents. She embraced adventure through sailing, hiking, snow skiing, tennis, snorkeling, white water rafting, and fishing — especially salmon fishing in Alaska, one of her greatest passions.
A proud and devoted Oklahoma State University fan, Janice and her husband John were season ticket holders and loyal supporters of OSU football for 60 years. They rarely missed a home game and always wore their orange with pride. She was also a proud member of Northeastern State University’s Nifty Fifties Club.
Janice is survived by her five children: Cathy Gebetsberger and her husband Dr. Charles Gebetsberger, Karen Summers and her husband Greg, Nena Carletti, Gina Duncan and her husband Rod, and Andrew Carletti and his wife Amy. She also leaves behind her grandchildren: Amanda Welch and her husband Andrew, Danielle Taylor and her husband Alex, Cole Duncan, Carli Duncan, John F. Carletti II and his wife Lindsey, and Mia Carletti. She is also survived by her sister, Sandy Wheeler of Arkansas, and numerous nieces and nephews.
Janice will be remembered for her fierce competitive spirit, her unwavering dedication to her family, her strength, independence, and adventurous soul. She was proof that great things come in small packages — and she will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.
The family would like to extend special thanks to all of Janice’s wonderful caregivers. Although she never would have admitted to needing help, your kindness and care were deeply appreciated.
A celebration of life to honor Janice will be held on Sunday, July 27, at James Calley Brewery in Sapulpa, from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. Family and friends are warmly invited to attend and share memories of her remarkable life.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donating in honor of her name to the Arthritis Foundation or The Salvation Army.
Arrangements are under the direction of Traditions Funeral and Cremation Services 35 S Main in Kellyville, Oklahoma 918-247-7373
