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Jane Felicia Pennabaker, known lovingly as Jane, passed away Saturday in Danville, Pa., at the age of 90, just days shy of her 70th wedding anniversary to her soulmate, William Pennabaker.
Born on All Saints' Day, as she would often add, in Jersey City, N.J., Jane was the daughter of Martin Luther Shaffer and Felicia M. Russo. Jane and her family moved to Altoona, where she met and married William Ephriam Pennabaker on Aug. 18, 1956. Jane, a cherished mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister and friend, was a woman whose presence brought comfort and warmth. She will be remembered for the love she gave so freely to her family and all who knew her.
Jane attended the Altoona School of Nursing and became a registered nurse, a profession that reflected her compassionate nature and her desire to help others. She worked in private duty care as a nurse, offering her skills and kindness to those in need. After raising her eight children, she later worked for The Pennsylvania State University parking office until her retirement. Throughout her working years, Jane was known for being dependable, thoughtful and dedicated in all that she did.
Family was the center of Jane's life, and she treasured every moment spent with her loved ones. In addition to her husband, William, she is survived by her children: William Jr., Billie Ann, Robert, Michael, Billie Lynn, Martin and Thomas; as well as her sisters, Carol (Richard) Hollingshead and Doris (Jesse) Grassmyer. She also leaves behind 16 grandchildren and 20 great-grandchildren who will carry forward her memory with love and pride.
She was preceded in death by a daughter, Billie Jo; and an infant son, whose memory remained close to her heart.
Jane had a gift for making the ordinary feel special. She especially enjoyed decorating for Christmas, transforming her home into a joyful display of holiday spirit with more than 500 unique Mr. and Mrs. Santa Claus figures, along with her most prized display, a Christmas village and Santa train. She also loved decorating for Halloween and delighting neighborhood children by handing out full-size Hershey bars. Her home reflected her generous heart and her delight in creating happiness for others.
In quieter moments, Jane found joy in life's simple pleasures. She loved playing cards with her grandchildren, talking about the Yankees and cheering for the Nittany Lions. She also had a thoughtful way of welcoming neighborhood children by leaving a basketful of sidewalk chalk by the front door so they could decorate her porch and walkway. No matter what, without fail, one could always count on every special occasion being marked with a greeting card that she spent hours picking out to be the perfect one. These small acts of kindness and fun were a true reflection of who she was and how she lived her life.
Those who knew Jane will remember her for her loving, thoughtful and kind nature. The love and memories she created will be cherished by all who have had the privilege to be a part of her life.
A celebration of life will be held at a later date. Arrangements are under the care of Koch Funeral Home, State College.
"We love you so much honey. XXOOXXO."