Cheerleader That Rooted On '55 State Championship Hazard Team Janice Lynn Smith Hughes, a cheerleader for the Hazard team that won the State Basketball Championship in 1955, has died.  The 72 year old Hazard native was born on January 20, 1936 and was a life-long resident of Perry County.  She was the daughter of Goebel Smith and Mary Elizabeth Robinson Smith.  Janice was a hospital clerk and she attended the Lothair Baptist Church.

Janice Lynn Smith Hughes was preceded in death by her parents: Goebel & Mary Smith; and her husband: Joe Hughes.  Survivors include one son: Paul Ray Hughes & Pamela of Hazard, KY; two daughters: Missy Hughes Strunk & Billy of Hazard, KY and Allison Baker & Mace of Viper, KY; one brother: David Smith & Carol of Shelbyville, KY; one nephew: William David of Shelbyville, KY; two nieces: Robin & Tracy of Lexington, KY; 8 grandchildren: Chanda, RaeLyn, Ryan, Zack, Trista, Paul Ray Jr., Dustin, and Mace Jr.; 5 great-grandchildren: Jesse, Jessika, Jaylan, Jacob, and Houston. Also survived by a host of other relatives and friends.  Smith died on June 30th.  Funeral services were held at at the Engle-Walker Funeral Home in Hazard on July 2nd.

---

I just read about Janice.  I was raised in Lothair and was very good friends with all three of Janice and Rays children.  Sorry to hear this guys.  I will call you in a few days Al. Robin (Combs) Amburgey

I remember Janice and her daughter used to come visit us when we lived at Dwarf.  She ALWAYS had a smile on her face.  She will be missed by her family and friends.  Darlene Davis Watts Richmond, KY

RIP Janice.  May the Bulldog pride live forever.  anonymous, Hazard, KY

Janice's smile and laughter were contagious and she kept that they tell me the rest of her life.  When I left Hazard I didn't see Janice very much but she always hugged me with that great smile.  She was one of those people who smiled with their eyes.  She was very athletic as I recall and I know she could folk dance better than anybody on the floor.  She was first cousin to June Patterson.   Two great girls gone from the Lothair family.  I remember them both with much love.  Ida Lee Hansel, Spartanburg, SC

Janice was a lovely person and always had a smile for everyone.  She will be missed by the family left behind and a host of relatives and friends.  R I P Janice  Shirley in Arizona

I went to high school with Janice and I remember her so well. She was so sweet and always had a smile.  Janice Napier Lovelace, Oak Ridge TN

I remember Janice very well in grade school at Lothair and HHS.  Bobby Fouts Ellijay, GA

Just thought I would drop a few lines in to say how such a great lady Janice was and she will be missed greatly.  We will miss ya' forever. William Booger Roark, Hardburley, KY

---

Add your comments to this page