Janice Fay Masterson

Janice Fay Masterson, 77, of Newburgh, Indiana, passed away on Wednesday, January 14, 2026 at Newburgh Health Care after a short illness.

Janice was born in Rockport, Indiana on August 14, 1948 to the late James Thomas Masterson and Mary Frances (Frank) Masterson with whom she resided during her early childhood. Janice spent many years in Mascatatauk State Hospital. Upon discharge, she moved to a group home with ResCare, and from there, to community living with a number of providers, including Sycamore Services, Compass, and Easter Seals. Janice loved going to day programs, at Aspire and ARC of Evansville, and enjoyed giving the staff there a run for their money. She could always be found carrying either a baby doll or a purse, and many times, both. Janice loved glitz and glitter, and even had blue streaks in her hair at one point. She loved pink, purple, and unicorns. Janice loved music, Christian songs, Motown, and, most recently, Taylor Swift, whose movie she thoroughly enjoyed when it was released.

Most recently, Janice lived in a group home with Easterseals Rehabilitation Center. She was known and dearly loved as Memaw, a true firecracker. She had a spark that filled a room and a spirit that couldn't be ignored. Whether she was proudly showing off her beloved baby dolls, switching purses like they were fashion statements, or singing from the heart, Janice lived with joy, personality, and unmistakable flair. She found happiness in the simple things she loved most and shared that happiness freely with those around her. Memaw's laughter, her songs, and her one-of-a-kind charm will be deeply missed and forever remembered by her Oak Hill family and all who knew her. Her legacy lives on in the memories she created, the smiles she inspired, and the love she gave so generously.

A celebration of Janice's life will be held at 12:00 noon on Tuesday, January 20, 2026 at Browning Funeral Home, 738 Diamond Ave., Evansville, IN 47711. Burial will follow at St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery.

Friends may visit from 10:00 am until service time on Tuesday at the funeral home.

Attendees are encouraged to share memories of Janice during the service.

Memorial contributions may be made to Easter Seals, 3701 Bellemeade Ave., Evansville, IN 47714, ARC of Evansville, 615 W. Virginia St., Evansville, IN 47710, or Gentiva Hospice 5401 Vogel Rd, Evansville, IN 47715.

The loving care provided by personnel in these agencies is greatly appreciated.