Janice Gatson Lee, lovingly known as "Lou," was born on May 25, 1961, in Newton County, Texas, to the late Albert Lee Gatson and Rosie Mae Spikes. A woman of deep love, strength, and unwavering devotion to her family, Lou lived a life rooted in faith, service, and togetherness.

Lou shared 30 beautiful years of marriage with her husband, Terrell Lee. Together, they built a loving home and raised their family in Shankleville, Texas. She dedicated her professional life to caring for others as a Certified Nursing Assistant, serving in various nursing homes with compassion and humility.

Lou found joy in the simple pleasures of life—playing bingo and dominoes, spending time with her family, cooking for her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, fishing, traveling on road trips, and enjoying dirt roads and barbecues by the cold creeks she loved so much. She was the heart of every gathering, the "party," and the glue that held her family together. Whether near or far, Lou never missed an opportunity to show up, love deeply, and make everyone feel at home. Her greatest legacy is the love she poured so freely into her family.

On Monday, February 9, 2026, Janice Gatson Lee was called home to eternal rest. She was preceded in death by her parents, Albert Lee and Rosie Mae Spikes; brother, Lawrence McEarl Gatson (Jack); son, Seddrick Gatson, Sr. (Tuni); and great-granddaughter, Ja'Liya Spikes.

She leaves to cherish her memory: her devoted husband, Terrell Lee; son, Anthony Gatson (Micole); daughters, Janice "Black Beauty" Gatson and Tiffiany Gatson (Kassi); bonus daughter, Tamika "Miki" Jones-Curry; siblings, Janette Gatson, Carolyn Gatson, Andre Gatson Reescano (Geneice), and Rosalind Gatson; grandchildren, Krystal Johnson, Jadarius Spikes, Seddrick Gatson, Jr., Se'Dayshia Gatson, JaKeyah Spikes, DeAnthony Gatson, DeAundra Gatson, RaJayla Ervin, Antrevion Gatson, Jaylon Mason, Ivan Gatson, Raleigh Ervin, Brooke Gatson, and Cameron Gatson; along with nine great-grandchildren and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and loved ones who will forever carry her memory in their hearts.

Janice "Lou" Lee will be remembered for her laughter, warmth, strength, and the unconditional love she gave so generously. Her presence will be deeply missed, but her spirit will live on through every life she touched.

"For I am now ready to be offered, and the time of my departure is at hand. I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing."
II Timothy 4:6-8