Janice Ray Fowler Smelcher, age 89, of Knoxville, Tennessee, formerly of Clinton, passed away peacefully at home on December 7th, 2025 surrounded by her children, grandchildren, and loving family. She went to be with the Lord after a life devoted to her family and faith.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Raymond and Ophelia Fowler; children, Lisa R. Muse and infant son Scotty Smelcher; brothers, Paul Fowler and David Fowler; and sister, Rose Ann Jansky.

She is survived by her children, Steve Smelcher (wife, Lisa), Jana McCarty (husband, Mark), and Dara Chadwell (husband, Andy); grandchildren, Blake Simpson, Brooke Simpson, Amaris Chadwell, Amanda Hopson, Ashley Muse, and James Muse; great-grandchildren, Elliot Simpson and Jayda Sliger; brother, Ronnie Fowler; and sister, Diane Cooksey, special sister in law, Jeanne Fowler and many beloved nieces and nephews, and many beloved great nieces and great nephews. Father of her children, Jim Smelcher.

Janice was proud to be a 1954 graduate of Clinton High School Dragons, where she served as a Majorette. She was also in Band, (played saxophone) Drama Club, FHA, 4-H, FFA Queen. She attended Tennessee Tech. Later, she retired from the University of Tennessee Knoxville, where she worked in Alumni Affairs and Annual Giving Office.

A devoted Mother and Grandmother, Janice's family was her greatest joy and her entire world. She loved watching Tennessee Football (huge Peyton Manning fan) history, music, musicals, reading, walking at the track and watching classic films.  She will be remembered for her kindness, strength, patience, sweet smile and unwavering love. She was a beautiful soul inside and out and she is already missed beyond words. "Giving of her time" is how she showered her family and friends with love.  This is not goodbye, this is see you soon sweet Momma/Grammie. We love you! Oxox

Receiving of Friends will begin at 11:00 am on Friday, December 12 at Holley Gamble Funeral Home, Clinton, TN. Graveside Service immediately following at Sunset Cemetery. Flowers to be sent to Holley Gamble Funeral Home.

Pallbearers will be Steve Smelcher, Mark McCarty, Andy Chadwell, Blake Simpson, Ryan Chagnon, Bobby Kelley and Honorary Pallbearer, Jim Smelcher.

Holley Gamble Funeral Home is proud to be serving the Smelcher family. www.Holleygamble.com .