Jane Evangeline Jarrett

Jane Evangeline (Adams) Jarrett, a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, wife, and daughter passed away on Easter Sunday, April 5, 2026.

Born in New Castle, Indiana, Jane was the daughter of Wayman Charles Adams and Wahneta (Michener) Adams, who preceded her in death. She was joined in marriage to Frank Nelson Jarrett on September 1, 1957, who passed away in 2008.

Jane lived a life grounded in family, faith, and community, guided by a deep and steady belief in servant leadership. She pursued her education with determination, earning both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Ball State University at a time when this path was far less common for women.

She devoted her professional life to education, working as an elementary school teacher in New Castle and West Lafayette, Indiana, and later in the Racine Unified School District, where she served for a total of 17½ years. She retired in 1997.

Her commitment to service extended well beyond the classroom. Jane was a former member of the American Association of University Women, PTA, and PTSA. She was an active member of United Methodist Women, where she served as co-president and as Metro South Secretary of Program Resources. She volunteered in the classroom, with the Girl Scouts, and was a River Bend naturalist. At First United Methodist Church, she served on the Administrative Board, was a parish visitor, and taught Sunday school.

Jane believed deeply in love, respect, equality, and kindness—and she lived those values every day in how she treated others. She treasured her family and loved music, travel, time spent in nature, and yoga. At age 90, she took her final international trip with her family to Paris, France.

She valued education deeply, and as a direct result of her generosity and commitment, two generations of her family have been able to earn college degrees.

She is survived by her children, who will carry her love and guidance with them for the rest of their lives: Roger (Linda) Jarrett of Natick, Massachusetts; Sonia Chameau of Amsterdam, Netherlands; and Dan (Jennifer) Jarrett of Racine, Wisconsin. She is also survived by her seven grandchildren: Scott, Joseph, Thomas, and Nathaniel Jarrett; Keegan Carver; and Emma and Alex Jarrett. Jane is further survived by her sister, Nancy (Joe) O’Grady, and her brother, Keith Adams, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

A church service and celebration of life will be held in July.

“To everything there is a season, and a time for every purpose under heaven.” — Ecclesiastes 3:1

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you honor Jane’s life through an act of kindness to another person, by supporting a student in their education, or by making a donation to missions of the United Methodist Church, HALO (Homeless Assistance Leadership Organization), or Habitat for Humanity.