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Janice’s faith was not just something she spoke about; it was something she lived.

Mary Janice Applegate, known lovingly as Janice, was born on March 26, 1937, in Sand Springs, Oklahoma, to Elmer and Margaret Yarbrough. Janice was raised and graduated from Sand Springs High School in 1955, carrying with her kindness and steadiness that would define her entire life.

At sixteen, Janice met the love of her life, Leon Arlin Applegate, through a mutual friend. After a three-year courtship, they married on June 17, 1956, beginning a life built on devotion, partnership, and unwavering love. This year, Janice and Leon celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary, a milestone that speaks to the depth of their bond and the life they created together.

Janice was a devoted wife and mother to four sons, Chris, Randy, Darin, and Darryl. She poured her heart into raising her boys, teaching them faith, compassion, and the importance of family. She worked side by side with Leon, raising pigs, tending their garden, and canning vegetables with simple, beautiful acts of love that filled their home with warmth and purpose.

For more than twelve years, Janice served as a teacher’s aide at Sand Springs Kindergarten. Her gentle voice, patient hands, and joyful spirit made her a beloved presence in the classroom. Children gravitated to her, sensing the kindness she carried so naturally.

Janice and Leon were faithful members of the First United Methodist Church in Tulsa for 38 years. Together, they served as missionaries in Israel, Costa Rica, El Salvador, and Alaska. They also worked through the church to help feed and minister to the homeless and show compassion through women’s outreach programs. Janice’s faith was not just something she spoke about; it was something she lived. She loved Jesus Christ deeply and shared God’s grace with everyone she encountered, whether through a warm smile, a listening ear, or a quiet act of service.

Janice’s hands were rarely still. She made rugs, sewed Raggedy Ann dolls, refinished furniture, and stitched quilts that carried her love in every thread. She even found joy in mowing their acreage, riding her zero-turn mower- something that always made her family smile. Her creativity, energy, and humor filled her home with life.

Above all, Janice adored her family. She cherished every moment spent with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. She created a legacy of love, faith, and Christian principles that will continue through generations. Her presence was a blessing, and her influence will remain woven into the hearts of all who loved her. The greatest compliment one could receive from Janice was when she said, “You are such a blessing.”

Janice is preceded in death by her parents, Elmer and Margaret Yarbrough, and her grandson, Bryce Applegate.

She is survived by her beloved husband, Leon Applegate; her eldest son, Chris Applegate, and wife Tammy; grandchildren Paige Applegate and Cade and wife Carlie Applegate; and great-grandchildren Stetson and Melanie. Son Randy Applegate and wife Kara. Granddaughter Bailee and husband Jake Horton and great-grandchildren Jax, Tinlee, and Haizlee. Grandson- Scott and wife Morgan Applegate with great-grandchildren Charli and Evie. Granddaughter Blythe and husband Dakota Snow with great-grandchildren Jordyn, Greyson, Audree, Shay, and Shia. Granddaughter Ashlie White. Granddaughter Chelsie and husband Zach Hamilton with great-grandchildren Zeilabeth, Aayden, and Liam. Son Darin Applegate. Son Darryl and wife Tammy Applegate. Grandson Nathan Applegate. She is also survived by her three brothers: Larry Yarbrough, Jerry Yarbrough, and Tommy Yarbrough and their families. And many loving friends and family members.

Janice lived a life of devotion, creativity, faith, and love. She touched countless lives with her Christian faith and kindness and left a legacy that will continue to shine brightly through her family and all who were blessed to know her.