Janice Marie Anderson Minter's Obituary
Janice Marie Anderson Minter entered “The Church Triumphant” (as she referred to the passing from this life to heaven) on April 18, 2021 in Austin, TX.
Jan was preceded in passing by her loving husband of 60 years, John Claer Minter. Jan is survived by their three children Terry (Dave) Smetana, Karen (Dave) Maxwell, and John (Lindy) Minter, Jr; eight grandchildren Stephanie (Todd) Buckingham, Rachel Lanter, Kate (Roger) Waesche, Joshua (Jen) Smetana, Jeremy Smetana, Anna Claire Minter, Luke Minter, and Molly Minter; and her four great grandchildren Reid Buckingham, Audrey Buckingham, Levi Lanter, Maxwell Waesche and another one on the way. Beloved nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends all mourn the loss of our big-hearted matriarch.
Jan was born September 11, 1936 in Slaton, TX to M.E. “Andy” Anderson and Theresa Myrtle Anderson. Jan graduated from Big Spring High School and remained close friends with many of her childhood classmates. She was actively involved with the alumnae, often times organizing reunions. She attended North Texas University where she met the handsome, John Minter, a Texas Aggie. They were married for 60 years and enjoyed a full life as they lived and traveled the world including Venezuela, Yemen, Saudi Arabia, Germany, and Africa with John’s career as a Petroleum Engineer. Jan was a joiner, leader, and organizer! She loved people activities especially where there was opportunity for stimulating conversation. She enjoyed reading, bible study and book clubs, square dancing, and playing bridge, dominos and other games. Often known for opening their home to family, friends, and strangers, Jan had the gracious gift of hospitality and a listening ear to those in need. Her involvement in the community included Sunday school teacher, Vacation Bible School director, Brownie/Girl Scout leader, even YMCA Try-Hi-Y advisor. One of her highlights was time spent in Mary Kay cosmetics, becoming a consultant at age 60! She loved learning the business, helping women feel their very best, and the parties, too!
Jan never met a stranger. She was drawn to those who were often overlooked, shy, or marginalized. She had an authenticity and truth of spirit that opened people up touching many lives. She cultivated friendships and invested time in her relationships. She had an infectious laugh and smile that could light up a room. As a gifted storyteller, she made it a priority to keep the family’s story alive, collecting data and stories to pass on to the future generations. Jan’s adventurous nature could delight John and her children, although her antics occasionally caught them off guard. The grandchildren have stories of their experiences at “Grandma’s camp”, driving lessons, swimming with her as the bucking bronco, birthday parties, rodeos, trips on the Dallas Rapid Transit, Mo Ranch reunions, and many more. Her willingness to believe whole-heartedly in the imagination of those she met allowed her to be a safe haven for expression and creativity. She also had a great love for dogs, big and small!
In addition to her devotion to family and friends, Jan loved her Lord Jesus Christ and trusted in His saving grace. She and John were faithful members of Westminister Presbyterian Church (Midland), Canyon Creek Presbyterian Church (Richardson), First Presbyterian Church (Dallas), and First Presbyterian Church (Richardson). She was inspired by 1 Thessalonians 5:11, “Therefore, encourage one another and build up one another just as you are doing.” Favorite hymn was, “It Is Well With My Soul.” The last verse reads, “And Lord, haste the day when my faith shall be sight, The clouds be rolled back as a scroll, The trump shall resound, and the Lord shall descend. Even so, it is well with my soul!"
Jan’s life will be celebrated this summer in Austin and Richardson. In remembrance of Jan’s life, donations can be made to Encompass Cares Foundation, 6688 North Central Expressway, Ste, Dallas, TX 75206; Cal Farley’s Boys Ranch, Gift Processing Center, 600 W. 11th Amarillo, TX 79101-3228; or your favorite charity.
What’s your fondest memory of Janice?
What’s a lesson you learned from Janice?
Share a story where Janice's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Janice you’ll never forget.
How did Janice make you smile?