Jane was born in Long Creek Twp, IL August 10, 1924 the daughter of Ollie H. and Mayme R. (Bonds) Mahannah. Jane married Edward F. Bennett, May 4, 1947 and he preceded her in death, April 11, 2014. She was also preceded in death by her parents, and her two sisters; Janet Houser and Gloria Joan “Jo” McHood.
Jane began her career with Illinois Bell Telephone as a switchboard operator. She advanced her position with Illinois Bell as she became a trainer for the rotary dial telephone, traveling to various places throughout Illinois.
After her marriage to Ed, Jane would conclude her career with Illinois Bell Telephone to devote herself to raising her two girls. Jane and Ed loved to travel, and often with Jane’s sister, Joan and her husband Jim or other “Kissin cousins”. Jane was a member of Springfield First Methodist Church. She enjoyed working Crossword Puzzles, Jigsaw Puzzles, especially over 1000 piece puzzles, and was an avid reader. She enjoyed visiting with family and friends, hearing of adventures and sharing her experiences. Her family was very special to her. She was so proud of their accomplishments and was their biggest cheerleader in all they did.
She is survived by her two daughters; Cheryl Western and Debbie (husband Terry) Neathery both of Springfield. She is the proud grandma of Jennifer Hinds, Megan (husband Alan) Edmondson, Kristin (husband Pete) Trapp and Kara (husband Ken) Hinds, loving GG to Brandon, Jake and Justin Hinds, Alec Kennett, Kaden Hinds, Eli Trapp, Reese and Riley Edmondson, Kylie Hinds and Addison Trapp.
Cremation Rites will be accorded by the Bisch Crematory prior to services. Jane’s family will host a memorial gathering at Bisch Funeral Home West 2931 S. Koke Mill Rd. Springfield, IL on Saturday, December 9, 2023 beginning at 10:00 am. A memorial service will follow at 11:00 am at the funeral home with Rev. John Hamilton officiating. Private inurnment will be at a later date in Mt. Zion Cemetery, Mt. Zion, IL.
The family wants to express special thanks and appreciation to the staff of Safe Haven Hospice, especially Angela, Candice, Patience, and Jennifer, also, the caring staff of Concordia Village, especially Rachel.
In lieu of flowers, those who wish, may direct memorial contributions to St. Jude Children’s Hospital or the Juvenile Diabetes Association.
Please visit the online “Life Remembered Story” at www.bischfuneralhomewest.com where tributes and condolences may be left for the family.
Arrangements are in the care of Bisch Funeral Home West. 217-544-5424
