Janice Lynne Creek

Janice Lynne Creek, age 82, passed away peacefully on July 26, 2026. Born on December 13, 1943, Janice lived a full, vibrant life defined by resilience, grace, and an unwavering devotion to her family.

In her youth, Janice was known for her striking brunette hair, slender build, and effortless grace. She loved to dance and express herself through music, often sitting at the piano and letting the keys tell her story. During high school, her fearless spark shone brightest as the solo majorette, twirling batons—including twirling both fire and knives.

That fierce, daring spirit stayed with her throughout her life. Janice was fiercely independent and wonderfully thrifty, knowing the value of a dollar and how to stand strong on her own two feet. She carried herself with dignity and a distinct sense of style.

Above all else, Janice’s defining truth was her boundless love for children. She lived with a single, driving purpose: to provide a better life for her children than she had for herself, pouring everything she had into making that a reality.

That deep, nurturing love extended far beyond her own family. For many years, Jan opened her heart and home as a foster parent, caring for dozens of young children in their greatest times of need—holding them, rocking them, and offering safety when they needed it most. Her legacy of love blossoms across generations, from her three children to her 10 grandchildren and 8 great-grandchildren.

Jan had a rare gift for bringing beauty and meaning into the world:

• A Legendary Green Thumb: Janice possessed a rare talent for nurturing plants, especially orchids, bringing delicate blooms to life with patience and quiet skill.

• Warmth Made by Hand: Through knitting and crocheting, she poured her affection into countless handmade baby blankets—wrap-around hugs crafted stitch by stitch for the newest arrivals.

• A Passion for Stories & History: An avid reader who enjoyed both physical books and audiobooks, Janice was also a passionate genealogist. As the family archivist, she meticulously researched her family's roots and honored the ancestors who came before.

• A Companion to All Creatures: Janice had an enduring love for animals, treating her pets like royalty. She found endless comfort and joy in the company of her pets, especially her constant canine companion, Boo Boo.

Preceded in Death

Janice was preceded in death by:

• Parents: George Edward Creek and Marjorie Ruth Tucker Creek

• Sister: Jeanne Creek Cason Shropshire

• Ex Husband and father of her children: Mike Key

Survived By

Her legacy and memory live on through her loving family:

• Husband: Frank Allan Crook

• Children:

o Tara M. Jones of Dalton, GA

o Lisa C. Aulick (Jeff) of Falmouth, KY

o Travis M. Key (Lisa) of Taylorsville, GA

• Grandchildren: Lauren Bragg (Spencer), Jared VanCuren (Samantha), Hannah VanCuren (Sean), Brianna Fisher (Lance), Chandler Aulick (Esther), Delanie Aulick, Ethan Aulick, Alora Key, Jaden Key, and Kelton Key

• Great-Grandchildren: Kambrie VanCuren, Addison VanCuren, Grayson Bragg, Ellie Bragg, Isaiah Bragg, Olivia Fisher, Graham Fisher, and Brooks Fisher

• Beloved Companion: Her loyal dog, Boo Boo

Service & Remembrance Details

• Visitation: Saturday, August 8, 2026, from 12:30 PM to 2:00 PM at Evans Mortuary in Rockwood, TN.

• Graveside Service: Following visitation at Roane Memorial Gardens.

• Pallbearers: Serving as pallbearers will be Janice's beloved grandsons.

• Celebration of Life Dinner: Held following the services at Donna Marie’s in Harriman, TN.

Janice lived boldly, loved unconditionally, and left the world far brighter than she found it. Her laughter, music, quick wit, and warm embrace will be deeply missed, but her spirit lives.

The family would love for those who wish to honor Janice's legacy to make donations to the Rockwood Public Library and the Roane County Animal Shelter in her memory.