Jane was born on November 29, 1931, the daughter of the late Samuel Leonard and Ethel (Bowman) Bell in Seymour, Illinois. She was the fourth child born on the farm. She was a graduate of Mahomet-Seymour High School, Illinois.
In late 1958, Jane's lifelong love started with Charles French as pen-pals. On April 8, 1967, Jane and Charles married in Wichita, Kansas.
Jane was preceded in death by her parents; a daughter, Lynda French; two grandchildren, A.G. Howell III and Kyle Maley; 2 brothers; and 1 sister.
Survivors include: husband, Charles; sons, Mike, Pat, and Charles, Jr.; daughters, Sharron, Karon, Janet, Debbie, Janene, and Lisa; numerous grandchildren, great grandchildren, and great-great grandchildren; numerous extended family.
Private family services will be held on Friday, at Lakeview Funeral Home, 12100 E. 13th Street North, Wichita. A memorial has been established with American Cancer Society, 236 Topeka St., Wichita, KS 67202. Send condolences via www.MyLakeviewFuneralHome.com