Janet Holder Price Splawn

Janet Holder Price Splawn, affectionately known as "GYP," was born on October 3, 1934, in Coolidge, Texas, and departed this life on March 9, 2025, in Cedar Park, Texas. Surrounded by family and the dedicated staff of Sagebrook Nursing Home Hall 3 and Getiva Hospice, she peacefully left this world, leaving behind a profound legacy of service, community engagement, and unwavering love for her family.

Janet's career was a testament to her dedication to public service and her commitment to the Democratic Party. Her involvement began early, as she worked in the Texas House of Representatives and the Texas Senate, as well as on the Stevenson/Kefauver Texas Democratic Campaign for President. It was during her tenure at the Democratic Headquarters that she had the honor of meeting Senator Lyndon B. Johnson. Her professional journey continued as she worked for Senator Ray Roberts and his wife, Juanita Roberts, before joining Senator Johnson again in both Washington and Austin.

In a pivotal moment of her life, Janet accepted the proposal of Jack Price and they made their home in Austin before relocating to Longview, Texas, in 1963. There, they established a successful Title Company and Law Office, while also investing in the renovation and leasing of rental homes and apartments, mobile home parks, and a motel. Janet was not just a businesswoman but also an active member of her community, taking leadership roles in various ladies’ social and political clubs. She served as the President of the League of Women Voters and was honored with a place in Who's Who for her contributions.

In 1973, Janet returned to Austin, where she furthered her real estate career and opened Arthur's, with her husband Art Splawn, a Las Vegas-style nightclub that catered to the political elite. She began a Texas distributorship with G. Heileman Brewing, continuing to weave her entrepreneurial spirit into the fabric of her work and contributions.

Her commitment to youth programs aimed at supporting troubled young individuals demonstrates Janet’s compassionate heart and desire to make a difference. A proud graduate of Mart High School, she excelled in her studies and was recognized as the State President of Homemakers of America and the State Youth Representative for the Texas Water Board. She also earned the Outstanding Student Award from the State Fair of Texas, served as Head Cheerleader, and played professional fast-pitch softball for the Wood Manufacturing Company.

Janet's legacy continues through her loving family, which includes her cherished daughter, Jana Cotton and husband Bob Cotton; her son, Jeff Price and wife Shannon Price; her grandchildren, Robert Ashley Cotton and wife Lisa, Amber Cotton and partner Thor Yanko, Courtney Bennett and husband Samuel, Jesse Price and fiance MacKenzie Machuga, Megan Wagoner and husband Peter, Justin Price, Jordan Price, and Jarrett Price; as well as her great-grandchildren, Tori, Nolan, Caden, Payton, Brandon, and  Nadahlia (Addie), Arron, and Jesse. Her niece, Traci Cotton and husband John, and nephews Shane and Randy Graves.

Janet was predeceased by her beloved son, Jon Justin Price; her parents, Maurice and Marguerite Holder; her sister Margaret and brother-in-law Kennith Graves, and her nephew Kennith Todd Graves.

Janet Holder Price Splawn was a remarkable woman whose life was dedicated to service, family, and community. Her spirit will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.