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Janice Eiland Castleberry, age 91, went to be with the Lord on Dec. 14, 2023, in a Dothan hospital, following a brief illness. She was known and loved by many people around Covington County.

Janice was born on June 22, 1932, in Loango, Alabama, to parents Bonnie L. Hartzog and Olin T. Eiland. She attended Loango School through second grade and completed her studies at Red Level School, where she was valedictorian and president of the class of 1950.

On October 4, 1952, she married Johnny Castleberry. They became parents of two children, Janna Castleberry Foshee and Jeff Castleberry.

Always so proud of her family, she is survived by her son and daughter-in-law, Jeff (Dottie Pippin) Castleberry of Gulf Breeze, Florida, her grandchildren, Margo McIntyre Sharpless (Brad) of Montgomery, Megan McIntyre Sasser (Jason) of Red Level, Edwin Marcus McIntyre III of Andalusia, Taylor Drayton Castleberry of Gulf Breeze, and Anna Dyas Hancy (Geoffrey) also of Gulf Breeze. Her great-grandchildren include Mitchell Parker Sasser, Marley McIntyre Sharpless, John Holland (Land) Sharpless, Henley Prim Hancy, Brooks McKim Hancy, Lydia Ann Hancy, and Sophie Mei Hancy. She is also survived by her brother, John Carol Eiland of Mobile, as well as numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, Bonnie and Olin Eiland; her siblings, Max Eiland and Christine Eiland Tims; her husband, Johnny Edward Castleberry; and her daughter, Janna Castleberry Foshee.

Janice could be described as a tireless, energetic, and enthusiastic volunteer. She was affectionately known as “First Lady” of Covington County Commission District 4. She worked in harmony with her husband, Johnny, who served as commissioner for 20 years. She was always ready to bake her delicious cream cheese pound cake to take to friends in the community.

Janice was employed by Red Level School as an office assistant for over 25 years and retired June 30, 1995. When she saw former students, Janice would say, “He/she is one of my children.” No one will ever know the countless good deeds she did for the children of Red Level School.

After retirement, Janice continued to serve her community through various organizations. Active in The American Red Cross, she often referred to herself as “The Blood Lady.” She assisted in blood drives, natural disaster-related recovery operations, and various local assistance efforts by The Red Cross of Covington County. For her 30 years of service, she was named an honorary lifetime member of the local Red Cross Board of Directors.

After the 1990 floods, Janice was instrumental in organizing Covington County PALS (People Against a Littered State), earning her the fond title of “The Trash Lady.” Her efforts included distributing trash bags to any one or any organization who wished to adopt a specific area of the county and to make a commitment to “Clean up!” She was an advocate of recycling saying, “I am a firm believer in recycling and ensuring we take care of what God has given us here on Earth.” In addition, she was a member of the Pilot Club of Andalusia and a volunteer for the Andalusia Area Chamber of Commerce.

For many years, Janice was an active member of Buck Creek Baptist Church.  She sang in the choir, taught Sunday School and served in the church nursery. Her motto was, “Each day I’ll do a golden deed by helping those who are in need.” Janice truly lived out her faith by helping and serving those in need.

Funeral services were held on Monday, Dec. 18, 11 a.m., at Buck Creek Baptist Church. Reverend Billy Boles officiated the service.  Interment was at Buck Creek Cemetery. Visitation was held at the church one hour prior to the funeral service.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Buck Creek Baptist Church Building Fund. Family and friends may sign the online register at www.foremanfuneralhome.com.