On Sunday, Sept. 17, 2017, the city of Cleveland lost beloved family member, DSU alumnus, and devoted community volunteer Dr. Lucy Richardson Janoush.

Dr. Janoush was extremely dedicated to Cleveland community, Bolivar County, the State of Mississippi, and DSU. She consistently worked to make improvements and new additions in any, and often unimaginable, ways.

For instance, Dr. Janoush was the backbone to the GRAMMY Museum Mississippi, and served as president of the board from 2011 to her death. With her help, the GRAMMY Museum Mississippi has brought and continues to bring thousands of visitors to the Delta in search of Southern hospitality, while helping to build our community.

The ambition Dr. Janoush portrayed in her lifetime inspired many people. She had an indescribable Southern “twang” to her that made her who she was. Dr. Janoush was kind and loving to everyone as she built up her beloved community.

Dr. Janoush was extremely involved and held leadership positions in several different charitable organizations. Some of these organizations include: Bolivar Medical Center Board of Directors, Bolivar County Literacy Council, United Way of Cleveland-Bolivar County, Community Foundation of Northwest Mississippi Board of Directors, Friends of the Bolivar County Library System, Delta State University Alumni Association, Dockery Farms Foundation Board of Directors, Crosstie Arts Council, Hayes Cooper Booster Club, Wildcat Booster Club and CHS PTSA, Cleveland Community Theater, and Cleveland Park Commission.

She was also involved on the chamber committees of Leadership Bolivar County, Southern Home Ideas Expo, Octoberfest, Tourism, Personnel Managers Organization, School Bond Issue Task Force, Competitive Community, Junior Achievement, and many more.

Dr. Janoush also received many honors for her volunteerism. Some include the Governor’s Arts Award by Mississippi Arts Commission in 2017, the 2015 Delta State University Outstanding Alumnae of the Year, Female Volunteer of the Year in 2015 by the Community Foundation of Northwest Mississippi, and much more.

Dr. Janoush made such a great influence on this community and the citizens. The motivation and love she had for her family, community, alumni, and state will never be forgotten. Although she will be greatly missed, her legacy will be carried on at the GRAMMY Museum Mississippi.