Jane Shields Williams

Jane Shields Williams, 88, of Monrovia, was surrounded by her loving family when she was called home, on Thursday, March 10, 2016, in Community East Hospital. She was born on May 10, 1927, in a farmhouse just west of Monrovia, to the late Clair and Ruth (Paul) Shields. Jane graduated from Monrovia High School in 1944. A talented artist, teacher and musician. She was passionate about music and enjoyed playing the fiddle, banjo and violin. During high school, Jane played music at the square dances held in the Monrovia Sandwich Shop. She received her BA in fine arts from Indiana University, Bloomington in 1948. In addition, she completed graduate work at Northwestern and Harvard University. Above all, Jane lived life to the fullest and her active studies and travels presented her with memorable privileges like meeting Joan Baez at Harvard and receiving a twenty tip from Frank Sinatra in California. While studying abroad, Jane waitressed for several upscale restaurants including The Broadmoor Hotel in Colorado Springs, Colorado, The Coonamessett Inn in Cape Cod, Massachusetts, and The Brown Derby in Hollywood, California. Jane taught for twelve years in Aurora, Columbus, Roosevelt High in Chicago, and in Ridgefield, CT, where she also played the violin for the Columbus Symphony Orchestra and led the Madrigal Choirs. While living in suburban Philadelphia, Jane even managed a squash club on the Main Line. After she moved back home, Jane was a substitute teacher for Monrovia, Mooresville, Decatur, and Plainfield Schools. Jane’s colorful journey is an inspiration to many; especially her adored children, grandchildren and beloved family. She was gifted in many ways and excelled in storytelling and using her imagination. An avid dog lover, Jane bred Golden Retrievers for a period of time and throughout her life, Jane always had a Golden companion by her side. Along with her parents, Jane is now reunited in heaven with her brothers, Paul and George “Buddy” Shields; her beloved sister, Martha (Shields) Gannon and husband, Glenn Williams. Survivors include her loving children, David Williams (wife, Susan) of Bloomington and Elizabeth “Tink” Williams of Greenfield; grandchildren, Ben and Sara Williams; brothers, Billy David Shields (wife, Jacki) of Martinsville and Larry Joe Shields (wife, Melanie) of Lima, Ohio; several nieces and nephews. Friends and family will gather from 4 to 8pm, on Tuesday, March 15, 2016, at Light Memorial & Funeral Chapel in Monrovia. The Funeral Service will begin at 12 Noon, on Wednesday, March 16, 2016, at the Monrovia United Methodist Church, 60 S. Church St. Monrovia. Immediately following services, Jane will be carried by horse drawn hearse, to her final resting place, in West Union Cemetery, Monrovia. Memorial contributions may be made to the Morgan County Humane Society. To share a favorite memory, send an online condolence to the family or light a candle in her memory visit www.lightmemorial.com

Tributes

Jane Shields Williams

May 10, 1927 - March 10, 2016