Earla Jane Nicholson , known affectionately by everyone as Janie, passed away on April 8, 2025, in her beloved childhood home in Boyds, Maryland, surrounded by her loving family, after a lengthy illness. She was 75. Janie was born in Bethesda, Maryland, on May 5, 1949, to the late Earl T. Nicholson and Edna Norwood King Nicholson.
Janie leaves behind her beloved daughter Tara Kristen Faulconer and her beloved son-in-law Thomas Jesse Faulconer Sr., and seven grandchildren: Declan Carson, Sophia Carson, Liam Carson, Reagan Faulconer, Jaxon Faulconer, TJ Faulconer, and Paytin Faulconer. Janie is also survived by her sister Lorna Nicholson Leonard and brother-in- law Tom; her niece Caitie Lipscomb and her husband Mich; her sweet baby nephew Thomas (Tommy) King Schwartzbeck and his wife Brenda; her great-great niece Faith Schwartzbeck; her sisters-in-law Carolyn King and Karen King; her niece Deborah Anne King; her nephew Edward King and his wife Loretta; her beloved Goddaughter Lauren Helmer; many great nieces and nephews; numerous dear cousins; and her BFFs Ronnie (Big Daddy) Burdette, Shelley Ellington, and Mary (Ginnie) Beitzel.
Janie was proud to be a lifelong resident of Boyds and spent her entire life living in the home built by her loving Daddy. Kristen and Jesse provided full-time care for Janie during the last year of her life enabling her to remain at home. Janie had a special bond with Jesse. He loved her and took extraordinary care of her during her illness. His assistance made Janie’s life so much easier during this difficult time.
Janie graduated from Gaithersburg High School in 1967. She was very popular in high school and involved in many activities, including the school Senate, Pep Club, Choir, Blue & Gold newspaper, Follies and Keyettes. She was Homecoming Princess in her senior year, escorted by her loving brother-in-law Gene Schwartzbeck. After graduation, Janie went on to a career with the federal government at what was then the National Bureau of Standards. After a few years as a secretary, Janie left the government to work at Community Savings & Loan, where she was promoted to Vice President. Janie’s love of sales led to her career in real estate with some of the largest builders in Montgomery and Frederick Counties (Kettler Brothers, Artery, and DeCaro) as both counties experienced the housing explosion starting in the 1980’s.
Janie was a true Maryland girl who loved Ocean City, jet skis, hard shell crabs and driving across the Bay Bridge. She loved going to dinner at Bish Thompson’s in Bethesda with Ronnie (Big Daddy) Burdette. She also loved Elvis and fast cars (especially Corvettes). She loved Christmas and always had a beautifully decorated live tree with tons of ornaments and tinsel, usually situated in front of the picture window in the living room. She loved going to craft shows with Shelley Ellington. She was very creative and bestowed many wreaths and centerpieces as gifts to family and friends. But, most of all, Janie loved her family. She was fondly known as Mom, Moe, and Porchalaca. Her life centered around her daughter, son-in-law, and grandchildren. She had an extraordinary relationship with her nephew sweet baby Tommy. They shared a special bond. They grew up together and were best friends. They were supportive of one another in every way. They were always there for one another and spoke daily on the phone.
Janie was predeceased by her sister Edna (Sissie) King Schwartzbeck and brother-in-law Donald Eugene (Gene) Schwartzback; her beloved great nephew Jason Schwartzbeck; her beloved nephew Henry King III; her brothers Henry (Ticky) King Jr., James (Jimmy) King, and Larry King. Janie was also predeceased by Robert Wade Deadrick, Kristen’s father; and her many aunts and uncles.
Janie’s legacy of love for her family, perseverance, and dedication to family will be forever cherished. She will be missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her – her family, friends, colleagues, and the many people whose lives she touched.
From: Kelly Rickard (Carr)
So sad to hear Aunt Janies passing. Too many memories growing up. I'll never forget her big bright smile, her love of Elvis & all the laughs her & my mom (Arlene Carr) would have. I know she's having a grand time dancing & carrying on with my mom in Heaven! My love to the family for this loss. I hope you find rest & peace.
From: Steve Oneil
Beautiful soul. Sat behind her in home room at GHS for 4 years. Always a great smile and attitude to go with it. Had lots of laughs together. Rest in peace, the world just lost another good one.
From: Donna Nicholson Ersek
Kristen, I am so very sorry for your loss. My heart goes out to you and your family. Janie meant so much to so many of us. She was such a loving daughter, sister, mother, grandmother, aunt, cousin, and friend. She will be missed by all of us. Janie will live in our hearts forever. Sending you love, hugs, and prayers for strength during this difficult time. Love you, Donni and George
From: Dianne
Dear cousin, Will always remember your wonderful smile and infectious laugh, as well as some fun times we shared.
From: The Hilton Family
Our deepest condolences to your family.
From: Ron Moler
My heartfelt sympathies to Janie's family and friends on this great loss of a one of a kind. I first met Janie at Germantown Elementary school, and then through Junior High and High School. She was a very special friend even though we didn't see much of each other after High School. A few years ago my brother Dan and I were eating at a Mexican restaurant when I heard this very distinctive laugh, even though it had been years, I knew exactly who it was. We sent drinks to her and her friends table. We then had a great get together remembering old times and catching up. I would run into her here and there, since I too have lived in Boyds from age 4. Janie will be greatly missed by all who knew her. Love and prayers to our Heavenly friend, God blessed us with her.
From: Babydumplin
My deepest condolences to the family during this difficult time. Janie will truly be missed. She held a special place in my heart and in the hearts of my family. Her kindness, support, and presence in our lives—especially the love she showed my mother and siblings—will never be forgotten. I will always cherish the memory of learning to swim in her pool when I was just five or six, and the laughter we shared through her playful jokes. Visiting her was always a joy. I’ll continue to blow my horn as I pass by in her honor, and every time I see a Coca-Cola, I’ll think of her. Janie, you will be missed deeply and loved always.
From: Linda Plummer
On behalf of the GHS class of 1967 of Gaithersburg High School, we send our sincere condolences to the family. Nothing loved is ever lost. We will keep her memory alive in our hearts forever. Reunion Committee GHS'67
From: Lauren Martin
I was so sorry to hear of Aunt Janie's passing, and even more sorry to hear that she'd had a long illness. She was my favorite of my mom's friends and definitely the most fun. I don't think she ever met a stranger and she made everyone feel loved. I wish I had stayed in touch after Mom passed, my biggest comfort that day was seeing her and Ronnie. Kristen she loved you so much, I remember going to visit after you were born and how excited she was. Many prayers for peace and comfort for the whole family. Love, Lauren (Carr) Martin (Arlene Carr's daughter)