Janice Ray Harlow

Janice Ray (Mathews) Harlow 79, of Artesia passed away peacefully at home May 28, 2026.

Jan was born on January 10, 1947 to Bill Lester Mathews and Ruth Cunningham Mathews. She married Chester Lee "Shorty" Harlow on December 10, 1963, and they made their home in Artesia. Jan was a school bus driver for 32 years.

Jan was preceded in death by her parents Bill and Ruth Mathews, husband Shorty Harlow, Sisters Helen Helton and Janell Apperson, and nephew Shaun Apperson.

She is survived by: brother Bill Mathews and wife Marva, Sons Greg and fiancé Marie, Jeff and wife Shan, John and wife Christy. Grandkids: Kelley and husband Andrew, Dustin, Dallas and wife Leana, Gus and wife Savanah, Thomas and fiancé Hannah, and John Jr. Great Grandkids: Lane, Rhylee, Lucas, Violet, and Rhoan. Nieces and nephews: Brandy, Jakoda and wife Katie, Austin, Addie, Ricky, Christy, and Dale, just to name a few. She is also survived by loving friend and co-conspirator Lola Hardimon.

Jan had many interests over the years. She was a member of the Artesia Extension Club, entering many projects in the Eddy County Fair. She has sewn many a quilt block, wallpapered numerous walls, and cooked enough good food to feed an Army. She collected antiques, bird houses of all sorts, but her favorite pass time was flowers, working in the yard and tending every bloom.

Jan will be deeply missed, but her memories will live on in all who knew and loved her.