A Personal Tribute to Janice McNair
Janice McNair was a businesswoman who was the co-founder and owner of the Texans.
Black News 
There are those who come into your life for a reason, a season, or a lifetime. Janice McNair entered my life as the wife of Bob McNair, a businessman and friend of my husband Jodie. Over the years, I grew to know her – the gentle spirit, the kind word, and the commitment to helping others.
Although she moved in a quiet manner, her impact was magnified by the programs, projects, and people she invested in. The Defender did stories on her heartfelt investment in the YMCA Texans in Third Ward, Pro-Vision Inc in Sunnyside, Sunnyside Solar Farm, KIPP Texas, Texas Southern University, and a host of other ventures. But one of the best-kept secrets I must share (one I put in our 95th Anniversary book, which I planned to give to her) is her investments in the Houston Defender.
When COVID hit the Defender, the world stopped, as so many other businesses did. Advertisers were not placing or paying for advertising runs, our distribution locations shut down, and our business began operating on our reserves. By Summertime, I decided to reach out to family and friends, and Janice McNair answered my call. There was no reason for her to stop and support the Defender. The Texans had never advertised, but she heard my cry and answered. She understood the value of the Defender to the community, and as a businesswoman, she knew the challenges businesses face. I thanked her repeatedly, but words could never truly express the value of her support, which helped us survive COVID.
I tell you this story so you will know that there was so much more to this lady of grace than many will never know. I thank GOD for Janice McNair in my life. Go with GOD, my friend, as you graduate to be with the Lord.
