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Lillian Jane Kline, 90, fondly known as Jane, formerly of Williamsport, Pennsylvania, and Fort Smith, Arkansas, passed away peacefully in her sleep in Syracuse, New York.
A woman of remarkable spirit, unwavering dedication, and a beautiful voice, Jane lived a life defined by service, creativity, friendship, and, above all, love. She was a leader, a confidant, a gifted singer, and a mother to all who were fortunate enough to know her.
During her years in Williamsport, Jane made an indelible mark on her community. As president of the Becht Elementary School Parent Teacher Association (PTA), she championed the importance of education and literacy, helping usher in the Reading Is Fundamental (RIF) program and opening doors to the joy of reading for countless children. Her commitment to young people reflected her belief in the power of education, opportunity, and community.
Equally passionate about the performing arts, Jane graced the stage of Williamsport's Community Theatre League in countless productions. A beautiful singer and natural performer, she brought warmth, talent, and an unmistakable presence to every role she embraced. For Jane, the theater was more than a stage; it was a place where friendships flourished, creativity thrived, and community came together.
Jane's dedication to others extended into her professional life, where she spent more than 20 years at Schneider Valley Farms Dairy, beginning as a receptionist and later serving in accounts receivable. With her welcoming spirit, strong work ethic, and genuine interest in people, Jane brought warmth and purpose to everything she did.
Yet at the very heart of who Jane was stood her unwavering faith. A lifelong member of St. Mark's Lutheran Church in Williamsport, her faith was not simply something she practiced on Sundays; it was the foundation upon which she built her life. It shaped her values, guided her decisions, strengthened her through life's challenges, and inspired her boundless generosity toward others. Her church was an extension of her family, and the lessons of faith, compassion, service, and unconditional love were woven into the very fabric of her being.
Yet perhaps Jane's greatest gift was her extraordinary ability to make others feel welcomed, valued, and loved. Whether offering a listening ear, sharing her wisdom, lending her voice to a song, or simply being present when someone needed her, Jane had a way of making people feel like family. She was a trusted confidant, a steadfast friend, and a maternal presence whose love and encouragement extended far beyond her own family.
From Williamsport to Fort Smith and ultimately Syracuse, Jane carried with her a lifetime of stories, friendships, laughter, and cherished memories. Wherever life took her, she brought the same generosity of spirit and strength of character that defined her 90 remarkable years.
Jane was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 51 years, Arthur B. Kline Jr. Together, they shared more than five decades of marriage, partnership, and a life built upon love and family. She a legacy behind in her daughters and countless other "adopted" children, Karen Merriefield (Mike) of Syracuse, NY, Alice Alt (Matt) of Louisville, KY; grandchildren, Brook Merrifield-Hintz (Syracuse), Kline Alt (U.S. Air Force / Germany), Micah Alt (Louisville), Madeline Jane Alt (Louisville); the Beiter family, nieces and nephews and countless other cousins who she adored.
A celebration of Jane's life will be held Sat., Nov. 14 beginning at 11 a.m. with visitation at St. Mark's Lutheran Church with service at Noon and a reception to follow. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to The Community Theater of Williamsport or St. Mark's Lutheran Church, Williamsport, or the non profit of your choosing.