Jane Ann (Richards) King, 87, of Paris Twp passed away at her home on Friday December 20, 2024.  She was born in Ravenna, OH on December 6, 1937, to Roger Melvin Richards and Elizabeth Foulkes (Jones) Richards. Jane lived in Paris Twp for most of her life, graduating from Southeast High School with the Class of 1955.  After high school, she attended Ohio University and received her bachelor's degree in early childhood education. After graduating, she began her teaching career in 1960 on the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. Upon returning to Ohio, she taught first grade at Crestwood West in Portage County before moving back to Paris Township in 1967 when she accepted a position at Southeast Local Schools teaching kindergarten, then first grade, for the next 30 years.  She formed lifelong friendships which she deeply cherished with the teachers with whom she worked.  After retiring in 1995, she enjoyed going on excursions and traveling with those friends, remaining in close contact with many of them until her final days.

Jane was outgoing, fun-loving, and spirited.  To quote dear friend Johnny Sherry, "Jane was unique and original."  She was a devoted mother, daughter, sister, and friend.   She was fiercely proud of her Welsh heritage and often reminded her family to "Never forget you are Welsh."  She was always willing to open her home and her heart, and the impact of her love and compassion for others was resounding.

Jane is preceded in death by her parents; brother, Richard Richards; brother-in-law, Ron Kurtz; and sister-in-law, Judith Richards.

She is survived by daughters Kristie (Keith) Gowens of Ravenna and Amy Elizabeth King of Paris Twp; son, Ron King of Paris Twp; a wonderful and devoted sister, Sara Kurtz of Ravenna; 6 grandchildren: Michael, Danielle, Ryann, Roger Dane, Morgan, and Keaton; 8 great grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews whom she loved and enjoyed. Jane also was grateful for her "Consulting cousins" Bill, Jim, and Roy Richards; dear friend Barb Coy, her "kindred spirit"; Deanna Cox Cottrell, Debbie Konkle, and other cherished friends too numerous to name.

Cremation has taken place.  Calling hours will be held on Friday January 10, 2025 from 5:00-7:00pm at the First Baptist Church of Newton Falls. There will also be a Celebration of Life Service at the First Baptist Church of Newton Falls held on Saturday January 11, 2025 at 11:00am with Pastor Steve Spurlock officiating. She will be laid to rest at Hawley Cemetery in Paris Twp, OH.  The family has requested that all donations please be made to the First Baptist Church of Newton Falls, 2640 South Canal St, Newton Falls, OH 44444 in her memory.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the James Funeral Home, 8 East Broad Street, Newton Falls, OH 44444 (330)872-5440.  Family and friends may view her obituary online or to send condolences, please visit us at www.jamesfuneralhomeinc.com