Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
Add a Memory
Make a Donation
Jane Johnston Obituary
Johnston, 60, was on her way to the Sacramento airport when she slumped over at the wheel and veered left into the center divider on Highway 5 just south of Sacramento, according to her husband, Tom Johnston. She had planned to park her car at the airport and fly to San Diego to visit their daughter and two grandchildren.
Johnston died about 8 p.m. Friday, April 13, 2012, said Vicki Bowman, prevention director for the Office of Education.
"I knew Jane for more than 30 years," Bowman said. "She was always there for me. It's a huge loss for our organization and for her family and friends."
Johnston was with the county office of education for about 20 years and worked for the Empire School District before that. The Johnstons have two adult daughters and four grandchildren.
Tom Changnon, county schools superintendent, said Johnston was a cornerstone for the success of the organization.
She was responsible for initiatives such as the fitness and civility programs. Her duties for the SCOE included overseeing publications and the communications staff.
"She has been a mentor for so many people," Changnon said. "It's difficult to accept that just yesterday we were planning our calendars and the other things that are going on. Now, she is not with us. It is just a bad dream."
Johnston was raised in the Tracy area and graduated from Tracy High School. She earned a communications degree from California State University, Stanislaus.
Memories and Condolences
for Jane Johnston
96 Entries
Rod Windle
May 16, 2012
Tom and Family
So sorry to hear the news of Jane's passing. May God Bless your family and comfort you all knowing that she will dwell in his house forever.
Lynda Jost
May 2, 2012
Jane was an inspiration to me to be a better person... to be kinder, meet the challenges of life with a good attitude and to love deeply. It's what she did - how she lived - and in everything she showed us how to do the same. She will be greatly missed and the ripples of her influence on so many will live on.
Jean & Jane Tally High School Graduation Pics
Lanore Saltzman
April 23, 2012
Jean & Jane Tally 5-16-1954
Lanore Saltzman
April 23, 2012
This is also from Mary Tally, Jane's aunt(ken). We were shocked and deeply saddened to hear about Jane. Her father Dennis was my first cousin. Our thoughts are with her family.
Joan Hardin
April 20, 2012
I was so saddened by the sudden passing of Jane. She was a remarkable woman and such a fabulous mom. Whenever I would meet,she always had that radiant smile and stories about her girls.
May your loving memories echo in your heart forever and help to bring you comfort.
With love,
Joan Hardin
Jill's 1st Grade Teacher
Sherwood School
Lynn Dickerson
April 19, 2012
All the things written here about Jane are true. She was truly a lovely human being. Accomplished in so many areas yet humble and gracious. She was my dear friend and I will miss her forever. I was blessed to know her and have her in my life.
April 19, 2012
Chris, my brother, I'm so very sorry for your loss. If I can be of service, please call. Love&aHug Bill Henderson
Kimberly Ringer
April 18, 2012
As a fellow member of the MOCSE Supervisory Committee, I wish I could travel back in time to our last meeting and tell Jane just how much I appreciated her. Her devotion to her family was abundantly evident that day - she was so excited about the birth of her latest grandchild! It will be so difficult to sit around that table again without her. As much as we will miss her, however, I cannot comprehend the pain her family, coworkers and lifelong friends must be suffering. May your faith and your wonderful memories of her accomplished life eventually heal your hearts and enable you all to carry on. I feel pretty certain that is what she would have wanted.
Maryann Dees-Kenner
April 18, 2012
I grew up in Tracy and Jane and Jean we the twins with the best pep yells for our Pep Squad. Tom and family, I am so sorry for your loss, she was a lovely person, and will be missed. My thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time.
Liz Jaramillo
April 18, 2012
I wasn't fortunate enough to know Jane very well, but we shared a hallway at work and i saw her almost every week. She was one of the nicest ladies and always said 'Hello' or 'Good morning' when she'd see me. And she took the time to talk to my baby girl when I'd bring her in the office, which I appreciated so much. It's so sad to know just how much her family will miss her, her husband, daughters and especially the Grandbabies. My prayers are for Jane and her family who she leaves behind.
Joe & Marilyn Terra
April 18, 2012
Our sympathy to Jane's family. She was an amazing mentor and well respected throughout the educational community for her tireless help and guidance. We will miss her and always remember her.
Debi Teague
April 18, 2012
Jane was such an encouragement to me when my children were at Big Valley Christian School. She helped me to let go and let them grow. My prayers are with you during this time of sorrow. I will always remember her.
Maryalice Alberg Owings
April 18, 2012
Jane will be greatly missed. I enjoyed her company at ACSA events and I loved hearing about her children and grandchildren! I am so sorry for your loss. She was inspirational to me.
Janet Clark
April 17, 2012
God must have needed the gifts Jane shared with so many to bring her up with him so soon. Many a time my mom and I would be eating in Fabios and in would walk Jane - she'd sit and chat awhile. I always admired her for treating everyone as if they were her best friend. Tho we will miss her, it's nice to know we have an angel to smile down on us and assist us. God Bless Jane's family, Jean and all those who worked so closely with her. What a special lady! We have all been enriched by her presence in our lives.
Steve Krimmel
April 17, 2012
Jane was the mother of my daughter-in-law, Jill Krimmel.
I never saw her without a smile on her face. Even when her son-in-law, Peter, exasperated her, as he was wont to do, she still remembered that she had prayed that "boy" into the family.
Jane you will be greatly missed by all, but you will be most missed by your family.
With our Love,
Steve and Jusing Krimmel
Shelley Sipe
April 17, 2012
Although far too short, Jane's time on earth was well spent, blessing and touching so many. My prayer is that the comforter holds the entire family close..
Teresa A.
April 17, 2012
My prayers and thoughts go out to Jane's family during this difficult time. I'm sorry for your loss.
Elsie Faria
April 17, 2012
The news of Jane's death came as a shock to me. I always envisioned her living a long life enjoying the fruits of her labor because no one deserved it more. When she came on board at SCOE it was like a whirlwind come to stay. She was like a breath of fresh air with new and exciting ideas. I was privileged to be her first secretary and could not have asked for a better boss (seventeen years). Her humor, compassion, and down to earth attitude made work fun. My heart goes out to Tom and daughters, and those sweet grandchildren that God allowed Jane to meet. Rest in peace wonderful lady.
Pam Looper
April 17, 2012
Jane is truly one of God's miracles. She greeted every day with a smile on her face and warmth and love in her heart. It didn't matter where you were on the totem pole, Jane would treat you with the utmost respect. She truly made the most of every day and loved and adored her family immensely. Although sometimes a little shy when she had to sing and dance in front of the SCOE staff, Jane gave it 110%. She was, and is, one of the classiest women you could ever know. I pray God helps her family get through these difficult times. Although we don't know why God chooses to take us when he does, he must have really needed her up their in heaven. May God wrap his arms around all of you, her wonderful family, and help you find peace and comfort soon.
Nancy Tometich
April 17, 2012
I was so sorry to hear of Jane's passing, my thoughts and prayers are with her family.
Tami Krauss
April 17, 2012
She was smart, funny and a joy to know. Taken too soon. Our prayers are with you at this time.
Margo Minecki
April 17, 2012
Jane was a wonderful and wise woman. The school public relations community has lost someone very special. I feel fortunate to have had the chance to know her. My sincerest sympathies to the family.
Trinette Marquis
April 17, 2012
She had an amazing way of making everyone, even those she just met, feel as if there was something special in them. She will be deeply missed.
Carolyn (Whatcott) Guptill
April 17, 2012
I was very sorry to hear of Jane's accident and passing. We worked together so closely during her years at Empire and shared many activities outside of work. She was a great friend and support. Even after she left Empire, she was always available to share her time and knowledge. My prayers are with her family as they go through this time.
eva sanchez
April 17, 2012
My condolences go out to the family. Jane was a sweet and understanding woman. She always had a positive outlook on our programs here at work. She will be missed dearly.
Carol Smeltzer
April 16, 2012
Jane saw and understood my potential more than anyone else ever has. She pushed me to see things through and made my time with SCOE a learning opportunity and a great experience. I was awed at her organization and professionalism and I know we will all miss her.
Karen Gordon
April 16, 2012
I will remember Jane for her sincerity, her deep caring for those whom she served and led in education, and her professional dignity and ethics. She was a true role model for integrity. My heart-felt sympathy goes out to her family and loved ones at this sad time. She will be missed by so many.
Ismael Herrera
April 16, 2012
My condolences to Mrs. Johnston's family. May you all find solace during these difficult times, knowing that Jane helped improve the lives of countless children.
Tima Seward
April 16, 2012
It's so difficult to realize that I won't see Jane at Rotary each week. I will miss her kind, gracious personality and our unfinished conversations about grand-parenthood. At a recent meeting, she was so excited about the impending arrival of another grandchild. You're gone too soon and we will miss you, Jane. I pray that your family will find comfort in all the memories you leave behind.
Gary Rector
April 16, 2012
Tom, My condolences to you and family
Cheryl Goulart
April 16, 2012
My life was blessed 10 years ago when I became part of the SCOE Admin team. Jane was my friend, my leader, and my mentor. She was an amazing woman and I'm going to miss her so much. My thoughts and prayers go out to her family.
Tom DeLapp
April 16, 2012
Jane leaves a powerful imprint on the public schools of our state. Her consumate skill as a leader, her sunny personality, and her caring spirit will be missed. Her tremendous legacy is seen in the lives of the school children and educators she so ably served. Many hearts in the school communicator family are heavy with sadness, but hopefully that will give way to fond memories of laughter, shared experiences, and the joy of knowing that Jane Johnston was our dear friend, colleague, and mentor.
Pam Denney
April 16, 2012
I am deeply saddened to learn about Jane's passing. Jane's commitment to education and her compassion for helping others was an inspiration. As a new Education Foundation board member, I appreciated her support, leadership and energy. I also enjoyed seeing Jane's enthusiastic and bright smile every week at Rotary. Jane will be truly missed by our community. My thoughts and prayers are with the Johnston family.
Jody Burdick
April 16, 2012
We are all shocked and saddened to start this Monday without Jane. Just last week we were sharing our "bucket lists" I will miss you, it was a great honor working with you for over 20 years. You are a loss to SCOE and our community. God bless your family in this time of sorrow……..Rest in Peace.
Terry Koehne
April 16, 2012
So sad to hear the news. Jane was a mentor to me and countless others.
Dianne Callahan
April 16, 2012
I will always remember Jane as a classy woman and a caring leader who deeply loved serving young people. Her staff always spoke of her in the most glowing terms. The profession of school public relations has lost a true light.
Jane
Elizabeth Mitchell
April 16, 2012
Jane was my special friend from Tracy High School.
We shared the same values and philosophy of life.
We played golf with Jane and Tom and shared wonderful days and sunsets together, laughing over the old days and looking forward to the retirement days. She lived life to the fullest every day. Always on the go, full of energy, she was very happy. She loved her husband, her family, her twin sister and her career. What an amazing woman !
We will miss her deeply. Our sincere sympathy to Tom and Jane's family.
Liz and Wally Mitchell (Manteca, CA)
Juliana Scaminaci
April 16, 2012
My thoughts and prayers are to the Johnston family. I know how close they all are. I had the pleasure meeting Jane at my brother's and her daughter's wedding! She was so kind and nice. She will be missed.
-Juliana Scaminaci
Shirley Burkhardt
April 16, 2012
My sincere thoughts and sympathies to Jane's family. I was absolutely shocked to get the news through CalSPRA. I knew Jane through the public relations group when she first started and she was so friendly and professional--I loved her smile and enthusiasm.
Julie Swift
April 16, 2012
What a tragedy. You will be greatly missed Jane. So many people are at a loss. God Bless you and your family.
Crystral Hernandez
April 16, 2012
Jane will be deeply missed!! She was the one who hired me and was truely an amazing boss! Words can not express our loss and my heart goes out to her family during this difficult time.
Mary Holden
April 16, 2012
My thoughts are prayers go out to Jane's family. Jane was one of the first people I worked with when I started working part-time at the county about 20 years ago, when I was a teenager, what an amazing mentor. She will be greatly missed by everyone.
Lauren Tapia
April 16, 2012
My heart hurts with the loss of Jane. She was positive, supportive, just, an amazing boss and true leader. She loved her job,loved all of her employees and treated us like family. She always pushed me to be better and instilled a work ethic in myself that I can only credit her for. Thank you Jane. Tom, Jill and Laurie: I am praying for comfort and strength for you during this trying and difficult time.
Jane, you will be undoubtedly missed.
Humble yourselves, therefore, under God's mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you. - 1 Peter 5:6-7
Barbara McCleskey
April 16, 2012
What can one say about Jane. There are not enough words in the dictionary to describe all of her positive traits. She found the best in everything. If there was a problem with anything that Jane was working on- one would never know as she made things seem effortless. My heart goes out to her family. Jane and I on many occasions shared stories about our grandchildren and how much joy they brought us. Tom and her family - may the memories of Jane help you through this very difficult time. I know how much you will miss her - as I am going to miss her so much also.
Michele Lahti
April 16, 2012
I always enjoyed the opportunities to be around Jane. Her spirit was so bright. We are all better because of her.
April 16, 2012
I am so sorry that I didn't have the opportunity to get to know Jane better. She was a member of our extended family and will be deeply missed.
Barbara and James Scaminaci ( Milton, Florida)
Mark Hofer
April 16, 2012
Jane was the foundation of SCOE. She will be deeply missed by all of us.
Mary Wilson
April 16, 2012
I am so sad to hear this, So sorry for Jean and Tom. My condolences to the family. I have so many wonderful memories of my childhood with the Twins, Purple cows for 4H and our Beatles fan club. This is such sad news.
Mary Wilson
Carol Benson
April 16, 2012
Jane was an inspiration and mentor to me as a member of the Education Foundation. She was unique in seeing the positives and strengths in people and encouraging them to reach new heights. Her compassion for children was always the priority in her leadership decisions. Jane's impact on our community will be felt long into the future. She will be truly missed.
Amy and JJ Bancroft
April 16, 2012
Jane was one of the most wonderful people I have ever met. She was always so supportive and I've always considered her my west coast Mom! My every thought and every prayer are with Tom, Jill, Laurie, Jean and their families.
Chris Ricci
April 15, 2012
Jane was an inspiration and a beacon of positive energy that made things work everywhere she went. I enjoyed working with her on the education board. It won't be the same without her. My thoughts and prayers are with your family.
Ryan Gallo
April 15, 2012
Jane was such a wonderful person. It is rare to find someone with the combination of thoughtfulness, tact, poise, intelligence, honesty, work ethic, and compassion that Jane possessed. I considered her a mentor during the two years I worked with her as a member of the SCOE Education Foundation Board. I will deeply miss her. My sincere condolences and prayers go out to her family and close friends.
Becky Shokraii
April 15, 2012
Jane's warm smile and welcoming presence will be missed. My deepest sympathy is extended to her loved ones.
The Johnstons with the Johnsons (and Walkers)
Annika Walker
April 15, 2012
Words cannot express how devastated I am that Jane has passed. She was my mother's dearest friend and is now at her side in Heaven. My prayers and thoughts are with you, Tom, Jill, and Laurie.
Linda Estep
April 15, 2012
Brought together by our professions, Jane and I soon became personal friends as well as colleagues. The first time our husbands met each other they started talking as if they had been lifelong pals. We vacationed together, shared successes and worries about our grown children, and every morning for the past 15 years we sent short email messages to each other, just to keep in touch. There is a void where she should still be, and I will weep in the morning when I cannot write to her.
Kathy Miller
April 15, 2012
Jane was a mentor and dear friend to me while I was beginning my career. Her thoughtful leadership, creativity, humor, optimism and caring spirit always brought out the best in those around her. She was a tremendous advocate for children and will be greatly missed by so many.
Sincerest condolences and prayers of comfort for her family…
Charlie Rodgers
April 15, 2012
Tom & Family,
I'm so sorry for you loss. You are all in my thoughts and prayers.
Jeanette Silveira (Moreno)
April 15, 2012
Words cannot express how much sadness I feel right now. Jane was like a second mom to my brother, sister and I. I will forever cherish all the wonderful memories she and our family had. I want Tom, Jill and Laurie to know that I love you guys so much and my family and I will always be here for you. You guys are in my prayers. Jane will truly be missed. Words cannot express how much. God Bless.
Donna Wetherington
April 15, 2012
Jane was a very dear friend and mentor during the years I worked with her at Big Valley Christian School 20 years ago. It was a joy in recent years to share grammy stories and I was so blessed to see her with their newest little granddaughter, Stella, on Easter Sunday. My heart goes out to Tom, Laurie and Jill and their families. My heart aches for those precious little grandchildren who will not have the experience of knowing such a wonderful, compassionate, and loving grandma, friend and servant to so many. She had such a servant's heart for people in all walks of life. She was a blessing to all who knew her. There is great comfort in knowing that Jane is now standing in the very presence of her Lord Jesus.
Pam Able
April 15, 2012
Jane will be sorely missed. Her positive attitude, compassion for others and her determination to do whatever she could to help the children in our community was amazing. She was one of a kind. My thoughts and prayers are with her family, friends and co-workers.
Marcia Perkins
April 15, 2012
Jane was one of those rare individuals who improved the circumstance of others through empowerment, smarts and genuine compassion. What a lovely human being.
Martin Leslie Moreno
April 15, 2012
What a family friend. Our kids feel like she was their second mother, as she babysat them when they were little. Our memories are so so happy. We send our love and prayers to Tom, Jill, Laurie, and all of their family. We are always there for you in whatever you may need. May you all find peace and understanding.
Louise Thorpe
April 15, 2012
God Bless the Johnston family. Jane was always thoughtful and professional. She will be missed.
Barbara Little
April 15, 2012
Jane was truly a mentor for me during the eleven years we worked directly together in Admin at SCOE. She was so proud of her family and looked forward to retiring soon so she could spend more time with her beautiful grandchildren. She will be missed but never forgotten by her SCOE family.
Anne and Terrell Estes
April 15, 2012
May the candle help guide Jane's family through this devastating time. Jane will be missed by many. We wish you peace.
Proud Grandma Jane sharing her first grandchild with us at SCOE
Barbara Little
April 15, 2012
April 15, 2012
Bob and Carol Lee send their prayers and thoughts to Jane's family. She was a wonderful person and we will miss her beautiful smile and energy.
Fred Calloway
April 15, 2012
My thoughts and prayers go out to the entire family.
Fred Calloway (Wayne, Pa.)
Linda Somma
April 14, 2012
I'm so glad we were able to see Jane and family on Easter Sunday. Our condolences to all, especially to Jean.
Love and light,
Chuck and Linda Somma
Sam Kneiss
April 14, 2012
Jane was the best all around leader I've worked with in this community! She expected your best and provided the support and feedback required to obtain that excellence! I can say with certainty, that our business would not be the same today, if not for her support and the opportunities she provided us! We will miss you and be forever grateful to you Jane!
Rosie Peasley
April 14, 2012
Jane will be greatly missed far beyond the members of her immediate and extended family. She impacted so many of us in positive ways. Her pride in her family and her love for Tom, Jill and Laurie was obvious in every lunchtime conversation we had over many years. Her grandchildren would have been recipients of great grammy love. She was a superb professional partner when we worked together in Empire and a professional role model always. I will miss knowing she is somewhere in my world laughing, shining and loving. She was a special friend who will be held in my heart. My deepest sympathies to her family.
Jennie Sweeney
April 14, 2012
Jane was and remains a bright light in my life. She was an amazing leader and role model. I will really miss her and I feel so lucky to have known her. My thoughts go out to her family.
Lynn McPeak
April 14, 2012
Jane was without a doubt one of the finest people and professionals that I had the pleasure of knowing and working with. She had a rare gift with people and those of us who knew her, were truly blessed.
Linda Elam
April 14, 2012
I paced Jane thru her very first marathon. Jane was always up for a challenge and you could never tell her no. She came through that marathon with flying colors. Once she set her mind to do something she did did it. She will be greatly missed.
Linda Elam
Debra Moser RN
April 14, 2012
What a Blessing it was to have worked with Jane. She looked for the postive resolve to any issue. Her depth of knowledge as a Assistant Superintendent is irreplacable. God's Peace and Love to Family, Friends and CoWorkers
Velda Solomon
April 14, 2012
Jane was just 2 years old, and she and her sister riding pink and blue trikes, when we all moved to Coolidge Ave in Tracy. So many happy memories. I am so very sad to hear of her passing. May God Bless the entire family during this difficult time.
Velda (Moore) Solomon
LaVonne Tollison
April 14, 2012
Jane was so awesome to my daughter, Stephani. Now I realize too late I never thanked her for loving my girl as she did. A bright and shining star burned out much too quickly! Tom, Jill and Laurie - you're on my heart, in my prayers. It's heartbreaking. Hugs to each of you!
Lavonne - Big Valley Grace
Karen Servas
April 14, 2012
I am so saddened! Jane was such a neat person, and I really enjoyed chatting with her at Rotary. I loved her passion for education and ensuring that the youth in the county have the support they need to excel in school. I loved talking with her about fitness, and the last time we spoke we discussed our daily fitness and healthy eating practices. She was a determined, lovely lady and I will truly miss her! My thoughts and prayers go out to Jane's friends and family.
Elizabeth Velasco
April 14, 2012
My heart goes out to you at this time and in the days ahead.
Laura Steelman
April 14, 2012
Jane lifted me up and gave me great confidence in myself to be the best i can be. She was a great leader and will be forever missed and remembered. There will always be a little part of Jane in every decision I make in life. And for that, I am truly grateful that i had the privilege of knowing her. Thank you Jane.
Linda Avedon
April 14, 2012
My deepest sympathy to all of Jane's family.
Dee DiDomenico
April 14, 2012
Jane is someone I looked up to. She was a positive person, praised my work at SCOE graphics and modbee and was always encouraging. I will miss her.
Dan Day
April 14, 2012
Rest in peace, Jane. It was always a pleasure working with you, and you gave so much of yourself to the community.
Condolences to your family.
Angela Shelton
April 14, 2012
My prayers go out to the family. I really admired Jane when I worked at SCOE, she was an amazing woman.
Deb Lazarri
April 14, 2012
Jane was a wonderful positive person, so kind and generous. I loved working with her at SCOE. She was a rock for the organization, we could always count on her. She will be so missed. My prayers are with her family.
Jim Cummings
April 14, 2012
We have lost a wonderful colleague, mentor and friend. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Barbara McCleskey
April 14, 2012
My heart goes out to tom and the family. I have known Jane for almost 30 years. She was a wonderful mentor and a great friend. She was so proud of her family and will remain proud as she watches over them. She was also so very positive and looked for the best in all. We will miss you Jane
Martha Connor
April 14, 2012
Jane was a great woman, and a great asset to our community. Her loss will be felt by many near and far. Rest in peace.
Terri McNabb
April 14, 2012
I will really miss her. She was truly a wonderful women with a kind heart.
Debbie Wey
April 14, 2012
I am so very sorry to hear this news. Jane was one person I had a lot of respect for. She always looked at the positive side of issues and was eager to work things out. Jane was also good at giving praise and acknowledging the good in people. I will truly miss working with her. My heart and prayers go out to her family and friends. She has made quite an impression on me.
April 14, 2012
All our thoughts and prayers are with Tom and family. Jane will be greatly missed. Dennis and Karen Long
Bill Axtell
April 14, 2012
So sorry to hear about Jane's passing. I enjoyed knowing her while we worked together at Empire.My prayers go to the family.
Showing 1 - 96 of 96 results
Make a Donation
in Jane Johnston's name
How to support Jane's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Jane Johnston's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more