Jane Fiore-Bigelow

She was a proud member of the B.M.C. Durfee High School, class of 1974. Upon graduation she attended the University of Massachusetts Lowell where she earned her Bachelor of Arts Degree in Music Education with a concentration in pianoforte.

For 36 years, Jane was a performing arts educator at B.M.C.Durfee High School in Fall River. In addition to her classroom work, Jane was music director for the Durfee Theatre Company as well as the co-advisor and co-director, with her husband Gary. Beyond her work in public education, Jane was president of the Massachusetts Educational Theater Guild and was later appointed a member of its executive council. She was also a member of the Fall River Cultural Council. Since 1977, Jane performed in, directed or musically directed more than 100 productions at the elementary school, high school, college and community levels.

Jane received numerous awards over her career, including Fall River Public Schools Golden Apple Awards and many state and civic recognitions. She, along with Gary, were inducted into the Massachusetts Educational Theater Guild Hall of Fame in 2017. In addition to her theatre work, Jane also served as director of music ministries, organist, pianist and Chancel Choir director at the First Baptist Church as well as musical director/organist/pianist for the Unitarian Society. She also served as guest organist for numerous other Greater Fall River area churches.

Jane is survived by her husband of 36 years, Gary Charles Bigelow, her beloved sons Zachary Bigelow, Eli Bigelow and daughter-in-law Emily (Buckley) Bigelow. Jane was also “Dog Mom” to her beautiful yellow lab, Chloe. Jane was the daughter of the late Faust and Muriel (Kneen) Fiore; sister to Elizabeth Fiore Guay (husband Michael Guay) of Waterford, Connecticut and brother to Faust Fiore (wife Tracy Fiore) of Mattapoisett. “Aunt Jane” was also blessed with many beautiful nieces, handsome nephews, their wives and wonderful cousins on both sides of her family.

In addition to being a talented artist, Jane was a beautiful person, loving mother, brilliant teacher and an honorable friend to all.

A Celebration of her life will be held at the new B.M.C. Durfee High School Nagle Auditorium on Friday, November 10, 2023 at 10:00 am. In lieu of flowers, monetary contributions may be made in Jane’s name to the Durfee Theatre Company, 460 Elsbree Street, Fall River, Massachusetts 02720.