Janice Burkett Wagal, 77, of Ahoskie, passed away Sunday, June 21, 2026 in Ahoskie House. She was born in Hertford County on Saturday, May 14, 1949, and was the daughter of the late Merrick Singleton Burkett and Bessie Marie Tillery Burkett.

Growing up on a farm, Janice enjoyed working with her hands, and was known as, "Nannie Mae." She kept a vegetable garden and was especially known for her love of tomatoes as well as her cooking skills. She enjoyed listening to Elton John's music. Janice also loved dancing, family gatherings, and giving to others.

She is survived by her daughter, Deborah Cordrey Bolam and her husband, Joey of Ahoskie; four sons, Victor N. Overton and his wife, Lori of Apex, Richard Ashley Overton and his wife, Missy of Selma, Francis E. "Frankie" Cordrey and his wife, Suzanne of Millennium, and C. Andrew Wagal of Whiteville; two sisters, Virgia Nichols of Ahoskie, and Brenda Guill and her husband, Carlton of Surprise, AZ; two brothers, Wayne Burkett and his wife, Julia of St. John, and Richard Burkett and his wife, Jean of Colrain; nine grandchildren, Allen, Alex, Kayla, and Ashlyn Overton, Alexis and Gage Bolam, Kaitlyn and Cole Cordrey, and Michael Wagal; several great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews. Janice was also survived by her life-long friend, Ruth "Ruthie" Earley. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by a sister, Marie Hembree; and a brother, J.C. Burkett.

The family will receive friends on Thursday, June 25, 2026 from 3:00 pm to 4:00 pm at Miller & Van Essendelft Funeral Home, 304 Main Street, Gatesville and throughout the week at Deborah Bolam's residence. A Memorial Service will be held Thursday at 4:00 pm in the funeral home conducted by Pastor Greg Hurdle. Interment will be private.

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