Jane Keller

(Martha) Jane Keller, 79, passed away peacefully on Monday, March 14, 2022. She was the beloved wife of her husband of 55 years, Joe Keller; 2 daughters, Stephanie (Kris) Kolbe and Gracie (Shawn) Whitlock; 7 grandchildren, Maddie, Sophie and TJ Kolbe, and Emma, Mae, Millie, and Joe Whitlock; sister, Mary Lou Klein, who preceded her in death, her faithful dog Domino, who never left her side, and countless friends who she touched throughout her life.

Jane was the proud daughter of her parents, Thomas and Eleanor Lysaght. She grew up in Indianapolis, IN and graduated from Indiana University where she studied Education and later furthered her education with a Masters degree in teaching.

Shortly after beginning her career as a first grade teacher at school 86, Jane met the love of her life. She was Maid of Honor at her first cousin’s wedding, (Judy Pfeiffer Malarney) while her future husband, Joe, was the Best Man at his best friend’s wedding (Jim Malarney).

After their own nuptials, Joe and Jane went on to live in Memphis TN, Chicago IL, and after welcoming their two daughters, they moved back to Indianapolis’ south side where they made their family home for the next 38 years.

Jane returned to teaching after the girls graduated from high school and taught up until she retired at age 65. Upon retirement Jane and Joe spent several years traveling, enjoying their winters in Orange Beach, Alabama, and having adventures to Greece and then to the Pacific Northwest, Canada, and Alaska. They enjoyed having lots of time with their children, grandchildren and friends.

Jane was passionate and giving of her time in several charitable and school organizations. She loved her work at the Catholic Charities and The Christamore House where she chaired the Tree Spree before the Christamore House started the Book and Author Luncheon. When her girls were in school, Jane was active in the PTA organizations, always finding ways to help. In addition to her volunteer work, Jane was a formidable card player. She participated in several Euchre clubs and bridge clubs. Nothing, however, was more intimidating than when she partnered with Joe to take down whatever unassuming Euchre opponents that had the misfortune of crossing with them.

Jane was an incredible mother, wife, friend, and grandmother She has left an amazing legacy that will be carried on for many generations. Jane loved to celebrate people and life and shared this passion with everyone she touched. She truly lit up a room with her spirit. She had a way of making people feel as if they were the most important person in the room.

Jane radiated joy. She leaves her family and friends with great life lessons: be quick to find humor, be generous, treat everyone with kindness, and live life with eternal optimism. We all feel blessed to have held her in our lives for as long as God granted us time with her.

Visitation will be Wednesday, March 23rd from 10:30- 12pm at St. Pius X Catholic Church, 7200 Sarto Drive, Indianapolis, IN 46240, in the Narthax. Immediately following the visitation, Mass will be said at noon in the church.

In lieu of flowers, donations or prayers can be made in memory of Jane to Catholic Charities or Little Sisters of the Poor.