Jane Chattin (Swanzy) Prater

Jane Chattin (Swanzy) Prater, 94, of Rogers, Texas, passed away on Monday, December 23, 2024, in Temple, Texas. She was born on August 8, 1930, in Milam County, Texas, to Lawrence Arthur and Lois Kathleen (Wright) Swanzy.

Jane married Tilman Jackson Prater, Jr on September 1, 1949, in Temple, Texas. They shared a devoted marriage until his passing in December of 2003. A lifelong Baptist, Jane attended several churches throughout her life, most recently East Highway Baptist Church in Temple.

Jane lived a remarkable life rooted in hard work and dedication. She farmed for over 70 years and cherished her home in Rogers, where she resided for 74 years. Known for her dry sense of humor and practical nature, she could often be found tending her large garden or milking the cows—always with her signature bonnet. Her family fondly remembers her quipping, “Time to go milk Betsy!” when the milk ran low.

A skilled seamstress and resourceful homemaker, Jane could create anything from clothes to quilts with ease. She cared deeply for her family and ensured everyone was fed and looked after. Beyond her home life, Jane attended nursing school and served on the executive council at Temple College Nursing. She was a steadfast advocate for education and worked tirelessly to ensure all her children pursued their studies.

Jane loved fishing with a cane pole and enjoyed eating all types of fish. She had a quiet strength that inspired those around her; when she spoke, people listened.

She is survived by her daughters Judy Sharon Prater-Gibson (John), Teresa Jane Bassett, and Jean Ann Byers (Allen); sons William "Willie" Paul Prater (Cheryl), Thomas "Tom" Allen Prater (Janet), Joseph "Joe" Frank Prater, Timothy "Tim" James Prater (Becky), and Albert Lindsey Prater (Tammy); Daughter in law Carol Prater, sister Martha O'Quinn; 12 grandchildren; and 25 great-grandchildren.

Jane was preceded in death by her sons Tilman Jackson Prater III and Arthur Floyd Prater; brother Paul Swanzy; sister-in-law Mary Swanzy and granddaughter Kristie Prater Morehouse.

A funeral will be held 11:00 a.m., Thursday, December 26, 2024, at East Highway Baptist Church with visitation an hour prior from 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.

Pallbearers will be her grandsons Dustin Prater, Jeffery Prater, Ryan Gibson, Dexter Prater, Clayton Prater, Zachary Bassett, and Matt Blocker.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to East Highway Baptist Church or Greathouse Cemetery.

Jane’s legacy of love and resilience will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew her.