Jane E. James

Jane Ellen James passed away on December 12, 2023. Jane was born to Lillian and Raymond Wolfgram on October 8, 1946, in Oak Park, Illinois. Jane married Randolph (Randy) James on July 17, 1965, in Aurora, Illinois, and lived her life as a loving spouse.  Following her graduation from Northern Illinois University, Jane entered the education profession.  She was a dedicated mother to Kathy (Brian), Kari (Ryan), and Doug (Ashley) and a doting grandmother to Jackson, Braydon, Mason, Jaden, Rayson, Madden, and Thatcher. Jane dedicated her life to supporting her loved ones so they could achieve their dreams.

As a masterful historian and part-time librarian, Jane engendered a love of knowledge in her children and grandchildren. She was a lover of books and a “master green thumb”.  Jane was an expert at professional sports data—especially for her favorite teams, the Chicago Cubs and Bears. She loved holidays and family traditions such as Easter egg hunts and cutting down the family’s Christmas tree. She created unforgettable memories for her loved ones. 

Jane is survived by her husband, brothers (James and Robert Wolfgram, and their spouses), her three children and their spouses, and her seven grandchildren.