Janice Chatoff Shea
Janice Chatoff Shea of Goleta, California, passed away on June 20, 2025, at the age of 72 at Cottage Hospital in Santa Barbara, after a brief illness. She was surrounded by her family and beloved friends.
Janice was born and raised in New Rochelle, New York, to Teddy and Ann Chatoff. She was predeceased by her only sibling, Steven R. Chatoff of Westlake Village, California. She is survived by her cherished son, Adam Palmer, and his partner, Aimee; her grandchildren, Arcadia and Ronan of Parker, Colorado; her niece, Nina Chatoff Juarez, and her husband, Miguel Juarez, of Thousand Oaks, California; her nephew, Alex Chatoff, and his family; as well as an abundance of dear friends.
Janice spent her younger years across New York, New England, and the East Coast—especially Vermont, a state that always held a special place in her heart, even after she relocated to California in the early 1980s. A lifelong adventurer, Janice loved the natural world and animals. She was happiest outdoors—whether at the beach, in the mountains, by a river, or on a quiet lake. She enjoyed fishing, hiking, gardening, making art, listening to music, cooking, archery, and bird and wildlife watching. A devoted dog lover, she found endless joy in the canine companions she had over the years, including Lola, the dachshund she inherited and generously cared for after the passing of her sister-in-law.
Janice had an indomitable spirit, a vibrant sense of humor, and a contagious laugh. She was open-hearted, honest, and deeply caring—especially about the well-being of our planet and all who inhabit it. She adored her family and friends, and the feeling was mutual.
Janice spent much of her adult life active in the Santa Barbara-area sobriety community, both personally and professionally. She attended several universities in Southern California, earning her master’s degree from California State University Channel Islands in mental health and substance abuse treatment. She was passionate about her work and dedicated her life to helping others, always striving to give back what had been freely given to her.
Janice would want the space she leaves behind to be filled with art, laughter, kindness, color, and peace. She would want us to hold close the memories we made with her—and to carry them forward with love.
