Janice Louise Nelson Fields-Hale

Janice Louise Nelson Fields-Hale was born to her parents, Juanita Nelson-Coleman and Edward Moss in Evansville, Indiana on September 10, 1946. She was 1 of 6 siblings. Janice lived most of her childhood years in Evansville and Mount Vernon, Indiana, but lived in many places due to her stepfather being in the military. She attended Lincoln High School in Evansville, Indiana.

Janice dedicated much of her adult life to hard work, service, and community. For 17 years, she was a valued employee of the WK Kellogg Company, where her strong work ethic and commitment to excellence earned the respect of her colleagues. Following her time there, she went on to serve for 15 years at the Evansville African American Museum, a role that became a true calling. With passion and pride, she shared her vast knowledge of the history of Evansville, providing tours and educating visitors of all ages about the rich heritage and contributions of the African American community. Her work left a lasting impact, helping to preserve history while inspiring future generations.

Janice was a woman who truly loved her family and would do anything to be there for them. She was kind-hearted, funny, passionate, and open-minded—always bringing joy and laughter wherever she went. Her grandchildren fondly described her as “churchy,” a reflection of her faith and the values she carried with her each day. Janice embraced life with an energy that was unmatched; she was constantly on the go, never one to sit still for long. Though her family often encouraged her to slow down, Janice lived life on her own terms—always with places to go, things to do, and love to give.

Janice received Jesus Christ as her personal Savior and lived her life as a testimony of His love. She was a devoted member of Assembly of Faith Church, where she joyfully shared her faith with her family, especially her grandchildren. One of her greatest joys was spending weekends with her great-grandchildren and bringing them to church, instilling in them the same love for the Lord that guided her own life. Her care extended beyond her family, as she often used the church van to transport children from the community to and from services, ensuring they too, had the opportunity to experience God’s word. Through her actions, Janice left a legacy of faith, love, and service that touched the lives of many.

Janice was a proud member of the Order of the Eastern Star and took great joy in being part of that sisterhood. She was also a member of the Southern Indiana Mentoring Academy, where she volunteered her time helping to mentor youth by sharing her lived experiences, mistakes, triumphs, and wisdom garnered along the way. Beyond her community involvement, she helped raise and guide multiple family members, always giving of herself with love and patience. Her playful spirit was unforgettable, often captured in her favorite sayings like “Hot Dawg!” and “Gimme some suga,” which never failed to bring laughter and warmth to those around her.

If you love Ms. Janice, Aunt Janice, Nana, Mama, etc., then you should know that she has gone on to be a Guardian Angel for us all. Always remember that it’s never goodbye to her, but always see you later. Embrace all of the good memories with and of her, as memories will last a lifetime. Have comfort in knowing that all of her good days have surely outweighed her bad days, and she would want us all to remember her with smiles, not tears!

She was preceded in death by her: parents, Juanita Nelson – Coleman and Edward Moss; siblings, Ricky Moss and Edwina Moss.

Janice is survived by her daughter, LaMonica Norton (Timothy); siblings, Antoenette Talbot, Lisa Moss, Joyce Moss, and Edward Moss; grandchildren, Theodore Jackson III (Kolbi), Emzery Fields (Jazmine), and Dominque Fields; great grandchildren, DreYaunah Fields, Kabryen Tinson, Jy’Ayre Fields, Arlisha Norton, Kaleah Banks, Khye Jackson, Kali Fields, and Khaori Jackson; great-great grandchild, Azhora Fields; and a host of aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family and friends.