Janice Gentile

Janice M. Donald Gentile, 77, of Lake Ozark and Jefferson City, Missouri, passed away peacefully on Monday, August 25, 2025, surrounded by the love of her devoted family.

Janice lived a life defined by service, leadership, and a tireless pursuit of progress. Her career in education, public service, and community development left an indelible mark on the lives of countless individuals across Missouri.

Born in Centerville, Iowa, Janice was the youngest of five children of Dallas and Maxine (Hellyer) Donald. She grew up in Seymour, Iowa, and pursued her passion for education at Truman University in Kirksville, Missouri, earning both bachelor's and master's degrees in special education and reading. It was at Truman that she met Barry Gentile, her husband of 58 years. They married on June 10, 1967, and built a life together rooted in purpose and partnership.

Janice began her professional journey as a special education and reading specialist across several Missouri school districts. In 1979, she was appointed Director of Missouri Developmental Disabilities Protection and Advocacy Services. Her dedication and leadership led her to serve in the Governor's Office under Kit Bond, and later as Director of Program Development at Ellis Fischel State Cancer Center, moving back to the Capitol as Administrative Assistant to Senator Roger Wilson, the Senate Appropriation Chairman. She continued her public service in the Missouri Department of Social Services, where she played key roles in aging services and Medicaid managed care programs.

Her contributions were recognized with numerous honors, including the American Association of University Women's Woman of Achievement Award, the Zonta Woman of Achievement Award, and the State Government Statesman of the Month Award in April 1993.

After retiring from state government, Janice co-founded Cura Advantage, a consulting firm that provided strategic guidance in health and human services. She also hosted a weekly interview program on JCTV, Jefferson City's local station, where she highlighted community voices and stories.

Janice's commitment to service extended far beyond her professional life. She served on boards for the Missouri Kidney Program, Rape and Abuse Crisis Service, United Way, Zonta, Business and Professional Women, Council for Exceptional Children, and the Greater Missouri Leadership Women's Program. She was a long-time member of First Christian Church, Jefferson City, MO.

In 2002, Janice moved full-time to Lake Ozark, where she helped establish the Community Foundation of the Lake, a nonprofit supporting local organizations. More recently, she founded Branches for the Lake, a collaborative initiative focused on community solutions through connection and commerce. As volunteer President and CEO, Janice led the organization in securing multiple grants and expanding its reach.

Janice was a lifelong, severe diabetic who faced her condition with courage and determination. She became a passionate advocate for diabetes awareness and worked to promote understanding of service dogs in the community, especially their vital role in supporting individuals with chronic health needs.

In retirement, Janice and Barry found joy in swing and ballroom dancing, often attending local events and dance clubs where they shared their love of movement and music. They also spent cherished winters as snowbirds in Fort Myers, Florida, enjoying the warmth, the ocean, and a slower pace of life.

Janice is survived by her husband Barry; daughter Dawn (Scott) Holland; grandchildren Raegan (James) Holland Walshaw, Luke Holland, and Blake Holland; sister Colleen Sharp; and sisters-in-law Linda (Curt) Springmeier, Pam Kuehler, Barb (Paul) Ruby, Donna Donald, and Sally Donald.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Dallas and Maxine Donald; brothers Dallas and David Donald, infant sister Diana; brother-in-law Gary Sharp; and two diabetic alert service dogs who dedicated their lives to ensuring her health and well-being for 22 years: Ace and Doc.

A private burial will be held at Deer Creek Cemetery in Chamois, Missouri. A Celebration of Life will take place on Sunday, September 21, 2025, from 3:00 to 5:00 p.m. at the Millbottom Event Center, 400 West Main Street, Jefferson City, MO 65101

True to Janice's lifelong commitment to service, she asked that memorial contributions be made to the causes she held dear. To honor her memory, please consider a donation in her name to any of the organizations listed below.

Community Foundation of the Lake, PO Box 1413, Lake Ozark, Missouri 65049

Rape and Abuse Crisis Center, 626 Howerton Court, Jefferson City, Missouri 65109

Seymour Industrial Development Committee, Seymour City Hall, 109 N. 5th Street, Seymour, Iowa 52590

Janice's life was a testament to the power of service, love, and leadership. Her spirit will continue to inspire all who knew her.

Arrangements are under the direction of HOUSER-MILLARD Funeral Directors, 2613 W. Main St.; Jefferson City, MO 65109. (573) 636-3838. Condolences may be left for the family online at www.millardfamilychapels.com