Jane Ebaugh

It is with hearts full of loving memories that we announce the peaceful passing of Jane Gladys Ebaugh on June 19, 2024, in Olney, Maryland. Born on May 9, 1951, in Baltimore, Maryland, Jane's journey through life was marked by her kindness, intelligence, and a commitment to serving others. She succumbed to pneumonia and end-stage kidney disease after a long battle with severe osteoarthritis.

Jane received a Bachelor of Arts from Capital University in Columbus, Ohio, and continued her spiritual growth earning a Master of Divinity from Trinity Lutheran Seminary, also in Columbus, Ohio. Later in her career, she earned a Bachelor of Science from Villa Julie University in Baltimore, Maryland.

Ordained as a Lutheran minister, Jane’s vocation took her to congregations in Tacoma, Washington, and Salem, Oregon. Her pastoral care extended beyond traditional church walls as she took on the role of Chaplain at a maximum security prison in Shelton, Washington, finding it a very rewarding experience.

Jane's commitment to service continued as she was recruited by and joined the U.S. Naval Reserve, serving as a Chaplain aboard the U.S.S. McKee at Point Loma, California, the U.S. Marine Base at El Toro, California, and at the Bethesda Naval Hospital in Washington, DC. She most enjoyed her time on the McKee during which she participated in a good will cruise up the West Coast to Seward, Alaska. While there, she supervised sailors in a project to construct/refurbish a boardwalk on the Seward waterfront for the enjoyment of Seward residents. Jane’s accolades included the National Defense Service Medal, Second Battle Efficiency “E” Ribbon, Navy Commendation Medal, and the Meritorious Unit Commendation. She served for 8 years, and her final rank was Lieutenant (O3).

In addition to her ministry, Jane found her calling in education. As a Special Education Teacher in Howard County Public Schools and then as an IEP Chair in Baltimore City Public Schools, she championed the needs of children with learning differences, ensuring that they received the support and resources to thrive. This was her last career before retirement; she worked long but fulfilling hours at Thomas Johnson Elementary School in downtown Baltimore.

Jane was a devoted fan of the Seattle Seahawks and the Baltimore Ravens. In her retirement, she collected complete DVD sets of beloved TV series including Golden Girls, Rawhide, Gunsmoke, and even Highway Patrol. Her love for the Andy Griffith Show (a ritual every day at 4 pm on TV Land) was endearing, as she could often recount episodes and characters with a fondness that brought smiles to those around her. Jane also enjoyed fiction, with David Baldacci’s Camel Club being a favorite, and she challenged herself with crosswords and other word puzzles (but not sudoku!).

Jane is survived by her older sister Carolyn Zimmerman and her husband Mark, and her younger sister Marguerite Plank and her husband Paul Baltisberger. Jane's legacy also lives on through her nephew, Dr. Stefan Zimmerman, and his wife Dr. Ginny Zimmerman, along with her niece Laura Terchek and her husband Dr. Joshua Terchek, as well as four great-nephews and one great-niece.

As we remember Jane, we reflect on a life lived with purpose and love. Her memory will continue to inspire those who knew her. Jane's departure is not an end, but a transition to her home with the Lord, where she will continue to watch over us.

For donations in memory of Jane: St. Jude Children’s Hospital

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