Janice Kay Thurston

Janice Kay Thurston, a resident of Madison, Alabama, passed away peacefully on June 17, 2025, at the age of 86. She lived a full and meaningful life.

Janice was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 49 years, Col. (Ret.) Joe B. Thurston Jr.; her eldest son, Thomas Page Thurston; her brother, John Kasper Frei III; and her parents, Lt. Col. John Kasper Frei II and Vivian Iris Frei.

She is survived by her children: Jennifer L. Cezar (Michael), Elizabeth Thurston-Dodd (Andrew), and Joseph Barry Thurston (Junko); four grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren.

Janice graduated from Austin High School in El Paso, Texas, and earned her degree in Education from Texas Western College in 1961. While in school, she was actively involved in Austin-in-Action, Future Teachers of America, the A Cappella Choir, and the Zeta Tau Alpha Sorority, where she served as music and sports director.

An Army brat turned Army wife, Janice traveled extensively across the United States and abroad. No matter where she lived, she made it her mission to improve her community and lift those around her. She loved teaching English and History, and she volunteered tirelessly—whether with the Red Cross, coaching baseball, tutoring, or teaching at the European Space Operations Center through the British Parents Association.

She led numerous service organizations supporting military families, a role that brought her immense pride and joy. She also had a love for sports and games—Bridge with friends, tennis, bowling, and, earlier in life, softball and hardball, where she played first base and shortstop in high school, college, and beyond.

In her later years, Janice found joy in substitute teaching and in teaching three-year-olds at the Asbury United Methodist Church Child Development Center.

Janice was a devoted wife, mother, and Nana to many. She was a remarkable woman—resilient, loving, and full of life. She will be deeply missed.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to: Huntsville Hospice Family Care 10000 Serenity Lane Huntsville, AL 35803