Janice Wilder Smith passed away on November 12, 2022, in hospice care in Brownwood, TX. She was born May 9, 1926, in central Texas, the youngest of 8 children. She met Larry Smith, and they were married in 1948. Together they built a life that took them to New Orleans, Houston, and Dallas, before finally settling in Alpine, TX for their retirement in 1985.During their time in Alpine they spent many hours volunteering at the Museum of the Big Bend, Ft Davis Historical site, and the Sunshine House. People will remember them as Mr. and Mrs. Santa Clause from the many appearances they made every holiday season. Jan was an avid gardener and quilter and wrote the column “Talk Around the Quilt” for the Alpine Avalanche. She was well known among family and friends for her extraordinary good nature, her positive attitude, and her perservering spirit. She was truly an example of what a good human being should be. She was preceded in death by all of her siblings, one grandchild, and her beloved husband Larry. She is survived by 4 children , 7 grandchildren, and 3 great-grandchildren. A memorial of her wonderful life will be held in Alpine on Dec 3, 2022. In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Sunshine House.

Services have been entrusted to Alpine Memorial Funeral Home in Alpine, Texas.