Jane Williams

Jane A. Williams of Springfield Missouri died quite peacefully Thursday morning July 14th at Mercy Villa nursing home. Jane was a lifelong resident of the Springfield area. Jane held several jobs during her career, and the common theme in each of them was advocating for all types of clients and looking out for vulnerable people who often did not have a voice. After retirement, Jane was an active volunteer in her beloved community. She said one of her proudest moments was when she was honored as the volunteer of the year while working at Hammons Hall. Jane also loved helping out at the Springfield library, and was an active member of St. Agnes parish.

Jane was always a rather feisty and independent spirit. In the early days of her career as a clothing buyer for Heer’s Department store downtown, mom was proud of her travels by herself to such places as New York City and Boston. She also frequently said she “did pretty well holding her own" in a predominately male workforce at the time. Jane was an usher at St. Agnes Cathedral until Alzheimer's disease got in her way. Even while residing at Mercy Villa, mom could often be found escorting other residents to mass, or to the dining room.

Jane is preceded in death by her parents, two sisters and two brothers. She is survived by her daughter Melissa, son-in-law Charles, and grandchildren Ian, Sam, Lidia, and Lucy. Jane’s family wishes to offer sincere thanks to all the friends, family, and “extended” family who have provided strength and limitless support during her illness. She was blessed to have a large circle of nieces, nephews, neighbors and friends who were there to pitch in for whatever was needed. The genuine fondness and impeccable care given by the community at Mercy Villa are appreciated beyond what words can convey. Jane is loved and will be dearly missed by many.

Funeral mass will be at 10:30 a.m. Saturday July 23, 2011 in St. Agnes Cathedral under the care of Herman H. Lohmeyer Funeral Home. Visitation will be 1 hour prior to the mass in the church.

Online condolences can be shared at www.hhlohmeyer.com.