Janice Jean Thurman

She is survived by her husband, Robert Dean Thurman; sister, Lela Ann Burnham; son, Britten Dean Thurman (Sandy); granddaughter, Lindsay Sara Thurman Vasquez (Andy); great-granddaughter, Addilyn Rose Vasquez; and a host of other family and friends.

She is preceded in death by parents, Rebecca Virginia Lynch Burnham and Jiles Fisher Burnham.

Janice was born February 5, 1938, at Belton Hospital to Rebecca Virginia Lynch Burnham and Jiles Fisher Burnham. Her family moved to San Antonio, Texas, shortly after her birth, but soon moved back to Belton. Janice attended Tarver Elementary School through 1st grade. The family then moved to Houston, Texas, and she attended Berry Elementary School through the 4th grade. The family then moved to Austin, Texas, and Janice attended Fiskville School from 5th to 8th grade. Her 9th grade was at University Jr. High; 10th at Austin High, and then graduated from McCallum High School in 1955. Janice then attended St. Edwards University.

Janice began playing the piano at age 5; music was her passion. Throughout her life, she taught and encouraged many children (as well as adults) to enjoy music. Several pianos always graced her home, and it seemed that there was always a student there learning a new song or technique. Many will remember Janice for her teaching techniques and her performances at many Austin area churches. She often played for weddings and funerals.

Janice married Robert Dean Thurman on December 29, 1955, at the East Avenue Baptist Church, Austin, Texas. They were married for 63 years, and blessed with a son Britt, granddaughter Lindsay, and great granddaughter Addilyn. Janice and Robert lived in Virginia while Robert served in the Army, and where Britt was born; then moved back to Austin.

Janice served Christ with all her heart in everything she did. She truly had the heart of a servant for Christ. She will be greatly missed by her family and friends.

Funeral Services will be held Saturday, January 26, 2019, at Cook-Walden North Lamar Funeral Home, located at 6100 North Lamar Blvd, Austin, Texas, with visitation beginning at 11:00 AM, and a Funeral Service at 12:00 PM. Janice will be laid to rest immediately afterward at Cook-Walden Memorial Hill Cemetery.