Janice Lanette Akin-Heard, 84, of Wichita Falls was called upon by our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, to join him on June 25, 2024. 

The family will receive friends between 2 and 4 p.m. on Sunday, June 30, 2024 at Owens and Brumley Funeral Home in Wichita Falls. Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m. Monday, July 1 at the funeral home. Arrangements are under the direction of Owens & Brumley Funeral Home in Wichita Falls.

Janice was born on July 14, 1939, in Sadler, Texas to Francis Lee Akin and Princess Artel Clinton-Akin. She was raised in Sadler and married Ira Earl Heard when she was 18 years old. Janice and Ira were married for 14 years prior to Ira’s death in March 1971. She then later married Michael W. Blankenship from Waco, Texas.

Janice is preceded in death by both of her parents; her husband; 2 brothers, Donnie R. Akin of Bolivar, Texas and Frank L. Akin of Madill, Oklahoma and 1 sister; Naomi “Sue” Akin of Wichita Falls.

She is survived by two daughters, Gail Burke of Wichita Falls, and Tracy Fehr and husband Kent of Wichita Falls. She is also survived by three grandchildren Courtney Branch and husband Trent of Burkburnett, Story Collazo and husband Nick of Iowa Park, and Chase Fehr of Twin Falls, Idaho; Five great-grandchildren, Preslee Branch, Parker Branch, Aubree Branch, Aisen Branch, Kyler Collazo, and numerous nieces and nephews.
 
Everyone within the Wichita Falls community whom assisted Janice throughout her life are appreciated for the care, kindness, and love shown to her. A special thank you from Janice’s family to Advance Rehab staff, Solaris Hospice staff, Rolling Meadows staff, and Owens & Brumley Funeral Home staff for the assistance, love, and care of Janice during her final days. 
 
Janice will be laid to rest at Crestview Memorial Cemetery in Wichita Falls.

So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” -Isaiah 41:10.