Janice Ann Atchley

July 3, 1954 – July 10, 2026

Janice Ann Atchley, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed peacefully into the loving hands of her Lord after a courageous battle with FSHD muscular dystrophy. She was born on July 3, 1954, in Portland, Oregon, to George and Joan Wilde.

Janice met the love of her life, Allen Atchley, in Fresno, California. They married and shared 52 wonderful years together, building a life centered on faith, family, and unconditional love. Through every joy and every challenge, they remained devoted partners, demonstrating the strength of a lifelong commitment.

Jan wanted to be a mother more than anything and was blessed with her daughter, Erin Wilson (Cameron), and her son, Anthony Atchley. She was preceded in death by her cherished daughter, Lindsey, whose memory remained forever in her heart. Janice is also survived by her brother, Gary Wilde (Karen), and by her four treasured grandchildren—Evan, Avery, Brooks, and Ryland—who brought her endless pride and happiness.

Janice possessed a rare innocence and kindness, always choosing to see the good in people and in the world around her. Her gentle spirit, warm smile, and compassionate heart touched everyone fortunate enough to know her. She had an extraordinary ability to make others feel loved, accepted, and valued.

A gifted and creative woman, Janice found great joy in sewing, crafting, and painting. Whether she was creating something beautiful with her hands or sharing her talents with her daughters, she approached every project with patience, creativity, and love. Her handmade gifts and artistic creations will remain treasured reminders of her generous heart.

Jan traveled the world with her husband and on one trip had an unforgettable experience swimming with dolphins. Jan and Allen attended the movie theater weekly, where Jan always had her favorite drink, Diet Coke in hand. She frequently went shopping with her daughter, highlights included helping Erin plan her wedding and redecorating their family home. She enjoyed the annual family reunion in Huntington and Pismo Beach where she was doted on by the extended Atchley Family. Jan and Allen hosted an open house Christmas Eve party every year, which was known for being a safe space for anyone to attend and you never knew who would show up! Jan’s children delighted in the extravagant Easter baskets and stockings that she would spend a year thoughtfully putting together and later finding treasures hidden in closets that had been forgotten! When she moved to Texas, Jan extended this thoughtfulness to her grandchildren and participated in many evenings playing board games with them.

For many years, Janice lived with muscular dystrophy, facing its daily challenges with remarkable courage, grace, and unwavering determination. Though the disease gradually limited her body, it never diminished her spirit. She greeted each new day with hope, gratitude, and an eagerness to embrace life. Her quiet strength and steadfast faith became an inspiration to all who knew her.

Above all, Janice was a devoted child of God. Her faith carried her through life’s greatest trials and gave her peace, hope, and purpose. Today, we take comfort in knowing she has been welcomed into her Savior’s loving embrace, free from pain and surrounded by everlasting peace.

Janice leaves behind a legacy of faith, kindness, creativity, perseverance, and unconditional love. Her beautiful spirit will live on in the hearts of her family and friends, and the countless lives she touched will forever be better because she was part of them.

She will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and joyfully reunited one day with those who love her.

“Well done, good and faithful servant… Enter into the joy of your Lord.” — Matthew 25:23

In lieu of flowers, the family welcomes memorial donations to Friends of FSH Research in honor of Janice Atchley.

https://www.fshfriends.org/contribute