Jane Orthel, 80, passed away peacefully on July 11, 2026.

Born on June 29, 1946, in Garden City, Missouri, Jane was the beloved daughter of Otto Day Orthel and Helen Francis Hayden Orthel. She grew up with a lifelong curiosity and appreciation for learning, beauty, and the quiet pleasures of life.

Jane graduated from Lee's Summit High School in 1964 before attending Lindenwood College, where she earned her Bachelor of Arts degree, graduating Magna Cum Laude in 1968. Upon graduation, she was recruited by General Electric in Cincinnati, Ohio, as a computer programmer. She enjoyed a successful career with General Electric, where she remained until her retirement.

Although Jane was a private person, those who knew her appreciated her remarkable intelligence, creativity, and understated wit. She had a deep love of history, enjoyed traveling to new places, delighted in solving puzzles, and treasured her daily walks through her beautiful neighborhood.

Jane possessed exceptional artistic talent and was considered by her family to be the most gifted artist among them. Her detailed drawings and beautiful needlepoint reflected both her patience and creativity. Throughout her life, she also shared her home and heart with many beloved pets, each of whom brought her great companionship. Her faithful cat, Sweetie, remained a cherished companion.

Her family fondly recalls one summer when her brother, John, spent several weeks helping Jane with handyman projects around her home. Part of the work involved balancing on a shaky extension ladder while painting. John has often laughed that he did a terrible job, but Jane simply took it in stride with her characteristic patience and good humor. It was one of many small moments that reflected her gentle nature and ability to find humor in life's imperfections.

Jane's family will remember her not only for her sharp mind and artistic gifts but also for her fun personality, wry sense of humor, and the quiet ways she enriched the lives of those around her. Though she preferred a life away from the spotlight, she leaves behind a legacy of intelligence, kindness, creativity, and love that will be treasured by all who knew her.

Jane is survived by her sisters, Jill Connaghan and Jerry Francis and brother, John Orthel (Stephanie); her maternal aunt, Marjorie King; her nephew, Steve Connaghan and his wife, Kate, and their children, Peter and Bridget; her niece, Kathleen Connaghan Gross and her husband, David; her nephew, Mike Connaghan; her niece and nephew, Alison and Daniel Orthel; her nephew, Joe Francis and his wife, Gloria, and their children, Caitlin (and her newborn, Kodiak) and Becca; her nephew, Jeff Francis and his wife, Mandy; her nephew Rick Francis and his wife, Theresa, and their children, Rich and his wife, Dominique and Christa; numerous cousins, extended family members, and her beloved cat, Sweetie.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Otto Day Orthel and Helen Francis Hayden Orthel; her brother, Tom Orthel; and her nephew, Don Francis.

Jane's family is grateful for the many memories she leaves behind and for a life marked by intelligence, creativity, kindness, and quiet grace. She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.

A private family remembrance will be held in accordance with Jane's wishes.