Jan Chapin Cantrell, born on June 25, 1935, in Moody, TX, to Margaret L. Newman Chapin and Cecil Charles Chapin, peacefully passed away at the age of 88 on May 9, 2024 at Autumn Oaks Assisted Living in Corinth, TX.
She graduated from Moody High School as part of the class of 1953 and furthered her education at Baylor University in Waco, TX. On December 09, 1954, she married the love of her life, Billy Ray Cantrell, in Temple, TX, and together they shared an extravagant life.
Jan's professional life was as diverse as it was accomplished. Initially a licensed beautician, she later delved into accounting at the Pondarosa Hotel in Temple, TX. Her entrepreneurial spirit led her to partner with her husband in building a mobile home sales empire in San Antonio, TX, and Belton, TX, where she managed all aspects of the business with diligence. Subsequently, she ventured into the automobile industry, opening Western Motors Used Car sales with Billy. For the final decade of her career, she dedicated her talents as a title clerk for the Huffines family.
Beyond her professional endeavors, Jan was renowned for her hospitality and love for entertaining. She embraced life with zest, especially relishing in the joy of a lively party, a passion she shared with her late husband, Billy.
In addition to her many accomplishments and passions, Jan Chapin Cantrell was an avid enthusiast of horse racing, a pursuit that symbolized her vibrant approach to life. Her love for the thrill of the track and the grace of the horses brought her immense joy. A testament to her devotion to the sport came in the form of a cherished gift: on Mother's Day, she was surprised with her very own racing horse, Azure "Jet" Dash. Dash, as he was affectionately known, became more than a racehorse; he became a steadfast companion, keeping Jan on the podium and filling her days with excitement and pride.
Jan is preceded in death by her sons, Danny Ray Cantrell and Billy Ray Cantrell Jr., and her husband of 57 years, Billy Ray Cantrell Sr.
She is survived by her daughter Tina Strickland and son-in-law Mark Strickland, daughter-in-law Cathie Cantrell, grandchildren April Strickland Noel and husband Michael Noel, Kenneth Strickland and wife Karen Strickland, Robert Cantrell and significant other Mattie White, Brian Vick and wife Jessica Vick, and great-grandchildren Zoe Strickland, Hunter Strickland, Wyatt Cantrell, Rylan Vick, Skylar Noel, Ian Strickland, Huxley Noel, Mackenzie Strickland, and Charlotte Vick.
Jan's legacy will continue to live on through the countless lives she touched with her warmth, generosity, and unwavering love.
SHARE OBITUARY
v.1.11.0