Janice Anne Spradlin

Janice Anne (Alexander) Spradlin, age 82, of Dallas, Texas, passed away peacefully at her home on Monday, June 23, 2025, surrounded by love.

Born on August 1, 1942, in Somerset, Pennsylvania, Janice was the daughter of the late Thomas Albert and Suzanna (Donald) Alexander. She graduated from Bridgeport High School in 1960 and was the first in her family to attend college, earning a Bachelor of Science in Secondary Education from Alderson Broaddus College in 1965. She went on to teach high school science and inspire students with her passion for learning and her belief in hard work and perseverance.

In 1981, Janice moved to Cleburne, Texas, with her family. While planning to resume her teaching career, she took a job as a waitress at Chaf-In Restaurant. Her exceptional work ethic, intelligence, and natural leadership quickly led her to become the manager. In 1993, she became the proud owner of Chaf-In, further cementing its place as a beloved part of the Cleburne community. Over the next 15 years, she successfully managed the restaurant, guiding its growth and building a loyal customer base. After years of dedicated service, Janice retired from day-to-day operations in 2008, but remained the owner. Chaf-In continues to thrive as a local institution – an enduring legacy to her resilience, strength, and entrepreneurial spirit.

Janice was preceded in death by her parents and siblings—John Thomas Alexander, Mary Mills, Glenda “Jeanne” Cole, and Susan “Susie” Buckhannon. She was previously married to Nicholas Michael Rachel, with whom she had her beloved son, and later to Gary Emerson Spradlin.

She is survived by her devoted son, Kevin Rachel, and his wife Monica; her grandchildren (who called her Gram) Andrew Rachel (Kasey), Lauren Swanson (Spencer), Jake Rachel (Caitlin Mann), and Natalie Rachel; and her great-grandchildren Brooklyn, Parker, and Sloan, who brought her endless joy. She also leaves behind her loving sister Delores “Jo” Sturm and husband Jack; nieces and nephews she remained close to, including Scott Sturm (Jean), Kimberly Alexander-Kinkelaar, Katrina Llaneza (Mark), Ellie Beaver (Matt) and a cherished circle of extended family and friends.

A special acknowledgment is given to Cynthia Williams, Janice’s caregiver and dear friend, whose daily presence, unwavering support, and loving care were truly a blessing. Cynthia was, as the family says, “an angel sent by God.”

Janice’s life was defined by determination, kindness, and grace. She was deeply loved by those who knew her and will be remembered not only for her strength, wisdom, and unwavering devotion to her family, but also her kind heart, quick wit, and candid honesty.

The family invites those who knew Janice to a visitation at Rosser Funeral Home on Wednesday, July 2, 2025 from 6:00pm – 8:00pm. A celebration of her life will be held at Rosser Funeral Home in Cleburne, Texas at 11:00am on Thursday, July 3, 2025. The family asks that donations be made in her memory to North Texas Food Bank – honoring her belief in the power of education by helping nourish the 1 in 5 children in North Texas who face food insecurity.