FAYETTEVILLE — Janet Claire Ousterhout

of Fayetteville, a much- loved mother, daughter, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully on January 24, 2024. She was born on August 13, 1941, in Little Rock to Alexander Francis Grohoski and Leocadie Cambre Grohoski.

Janet received her education at Mount St. Mary Academy in Little Rock and furthered her studies at the University of Arkansas. She pledged to Kappa Kappa Gamma sorority. Her remarkable involvement in campus activities earned her the title of Arkansas Beauty, a testament to her grace. Later, Janet returned to the University of Arkansas and obtained her Master’s in Education in 1981.

Janet dedicated her career to Fayetteville Public Schools, where she served as a teacher and counselor at Jefferson and Butterfield Elementary.

Her support and dedication to her students earned her the affectionate nickname “Mrs. O.” Beyond her professional life, Janet was known as “Gee” to her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, a term of endearment coined by her first-born grandchild, Lynley. Janet was an avid reader, gardener, tennis enthusiast, and cherished member of Chapter S PEO and the Bridge Club; her infectious and wicked sense of humor enriched the lives of all who knew her.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her brother, Frank Alexander Grohoski; her first husband, David B. Horne; and her second husband, Don S. Ousterhout.

She is survived by her devoted daughters, Sarah Horne Bailey and Cambre Horne Brooks (John), both of Fayetteville; her loving sister, Linda Dollins (Jerry) of Fayetteville; her adoring grandchildren, Lynley Beth Chase (Adam), Emmie Claire Bailey, Hays Alexander Brooks; and step-grandchildren, Miller Brooks and Jordan Brooks; her cherished great-grandchildren, Addie and Annie Chase; and her two nieces and nephew, Jan, Katherine, and Steve.

As a tribute to the things that were close to her heart, memorial contributions may be made to the Fayetteville Public Education Foundation, PO Box 571 Fayetteville, Ark. 72702, at www.fayedfoundation.org and the Celia Grace Dollins Cat Room at the Springdale Animal Shelter, 1549 E. Don Tyson Parkway, Springdale, Ark. 72764.

Janet’s legacy will live on in every flower that blooms, every book read, and every act of kindness extended toward animals.

The family will hold a private celebration of life at a later date. To place an online tribute, please visit www.bernafuneralhomes.com