Janice McCowan

Janice McCowan, age 84, Fort Wayne, went to be with her heavenly father Oct. 8, 2025, surrounded by her family. 

Janice was born Jan. 10, 1941, in Dean Coal Mining Camp in Norma, Tennessee. Janice was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and great-great-grandmother who will be deeply missed.

Janice loved to crochet, cross stitch, quilt, play cards and spend time with her family.

Survivors include:

Her husband — John Welch, Fort Wayne

One son — Mark McCowan (wife: Josie), Fort Wayne

Two daughters — Cindy McCowan, Oneida, Tennessee, and Shari Conatser (husband: Mike), Dunkirk

Stepson — Paul Welch, Corbin, Kentucky 

Seven grandchildren — Jennifer, Tony, Nate, Ashley, Jerid, Simone and Noah

Ten great grandchildren and three great-great-grandchildren

Two brothers — Charlie (wife: Mary) Botts and Marion Botts

Brother-in-law — Jerry Welch

Janice was preceded in death by her first husband Benton McCowan; daughter Regina McCowan; sister Treva Devoe; sister-in-law Imagene Botts; and her parents Lemuel and Ruby Botts.

Viewing will be held Saturday, Oct. 11, from noon to 2 p.m. at Williamson-Spencer and Penrod Funeral Home in Portland. The funeral will follow the viewing at 2 p.m. at the funeral home. 

Burial will be held at Hillcrest Cemetery south of Redkey.

Memorials may be directed to Jay County Cancer Society or Alzheimer’s Association.