Elizabeth Jane Spies

Elizabeth Jane Spies, age 85, went to be with the Lord on April 6, 2017 after suffering a stroke several days earlier at her home in Dallas, Texas. Born December 24, 1931 in Newark, New Jersey to the late Betty Foster Berry and the late Clark Gould Lee. She was the oldest of two sisters. Jane’s family settled in the Dallas area in the early 1940's and she graduated from Highland Park High School in 1950 and from Southern Methodist University in 1953 where she was a member of the Alpha Delta Pi Sorority. After marrying William John Spies Jr. (Bill) and teaching elementary school for several years, she focused on raising three sons, making friends wherever she went. She literally never met a stranger. Her later years were spent being “Super Nana” to her 4 grandkids, serving others and busier than people half her age, including being an inspirational leader of her bowling team for over 20 years. A true movie buff, she won contests with her encyclopedic knowledge of old movies. Between book clubs, ministries, travels and countless social groups, she spread her warmth and love to just about everyone she met. Her passion for children made her eager to substitute for teachers all over DISD well into her 70’s, and her command of Spanish gave her a special role in her ministries. She is survived by her sister Virginia Kay of Dallas, TX, sons Steve (wife Cristy) Spies of Dallas, TX, and Brian (wife Anne) Spies of Winchester, MA, and grandchildren John, Natalie, Stephanie and Danielle. She was preceded in death by her husband Bill and son Michael. There will be a celebration Mass on Tuesday, April 11 at 10 a.m. at St. Monica Catholic Church, 9933 Midway Rd., Dallas, TX 75220 followed by a reception in St. Monica’s family center and a 2 p.m. graveside service at Calvary Hill Cemetery, 3235 Lombardy Lane, Dallas, TX 75220. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to North Dallas Shared Ministries, 2875 Merrell Rd., Dallas, Texas 75229 www.ndsm.org.