Janet Sue Mather

Janet Sue Mather, age 74, passed away on December 13, 2025, in Lafayette, Indiana at IU Arnett Hospital after a battle with cancer. Janet was born in Lafayette, Indiana on September 30, 1951. She lived most of her life in Brook, Indiana.

Janet built a full and meaningful life through hard work, love, and devotion to her family. She had a true passion for cooking and was especially known in her younger years for making beautiful cakes. During special occasions, everyone requested her red velvet cake that she was known for. Later, she briefly ran her own restaurant and eventually cooked for the Newton County Jail, where she retired from her career so she could be home more.

Above all else, Janet loved her children and grandchildren dearly. Her home was always filled with kids—whether they were her own or belonged to someone else—and every one of them loved her right back. She had a great sense of humor and brought laughter wherever she went.

Janet enjoyed playing euchre and was part of a euchre club for a time. She also loved playing Yahtzee, spending time with friends, attending estate sales, and finding a good bargain.

Janet was preceded in death by her mother, Gloria Shelton, and stepfather, Bob Shelton; her father, Bea Gipson, and stepmother, Helen Gipson; her granddaughter, Chloe Taylor; her son-in-law, Nathan Orr; her sister, Sheila Jessie; and her brother-in-law, Rodney Daniels.

She is survived by her loving husband, Jim Mather, whom she was married to for very nearly 44 years; her son, Dustin Taylor; her daughters, Amber Orr, Cassy (Bob) Stump, and Lacey Mather; and her grandchildren, Emma, A.J., Alyssa, Dylinn, Teagin, Ryne, and Clay.

She is also survived by her siblings, Janice Daniels and Bonnie Caron; half-siblings, Tina (John) Gilliam, Bobbie (Jennifer) Gipson, and Robbie Gipson; her brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Beth (Larry) Askren and Pat (Charlie) Bailey; along with several nieces and nephews.

Janet will be remembered for her loving heart, generous spirit, quick wit, and the warmth she brought to everyone who knew her.

There will be a graveside service on Thursday, December 18 at 2 PM (CT) at Riverside Cemetery in Brook, followed by a celebration of life dinner at the Brook Methodist Church.

Arrangements entrusted to Gerts, Windler & Keller Funeral Homes ~ Brook Chapel  |  129 E Main St, Brook, IN 47922  |  (219)275-6161  |  KellerFH.com  |  Info@KellerFH.com