Jane Suk Stuart-Andrus

Stuart-Andrus, Jane Suk

On April 5, 2014, Jane Suk Stuart-Andrus died as she lived: quietly, with dignity, surrounded by love. Her life touched so many in this community and around the world. "The power of one" describes this dynamic woman whose life as a teacher, wife, mother and friend enriched and inspired everyone she met. Tireless in her passion for improving the lives of others, especially through teaching, reading and creative expression, Jane has left a legacy of joy and possibility. Jane received her Master's in Education from SUNY New Paltz specializing in three to five year old children. A kindergarten teacher and educator for nearly 45 years, the impact of her 39 years at the Binghamton University Campus Preschool can be seen in the generations of students she taught and inspired to be curious and compassionate citizens of the world. Jane also held adjunct positions that included teaching and supervising BU students in classroom settings. Jane's love of reading and commitment to the Binghamton community, also led her in recent years to open as co-owner, RiverRead Books, an independent bookstore in downtown Binghamton. Jane's creative expression found itself in music, dance, visual arts and especially pottery making, language and travel across six continents. Her joie de vivre manifested itself in nature and the garden: herbs, flowers, fruits and vegetables, all of which found their way to her table where she gathered family and friends to share in the bounty and beauty of her world. She took a special pleasure in the shared joy of a good meal, good conversation, and most of all a good party. Those who knew Jane will not forget the festive spirit she shared with all, creating magical events for the celebration of holidays and the seasons. Jane also shared her talents, skills and work ethic with her community by serving on the Guiding Committee of the Southside West Neighborhood Assembly, involvement in the Shared Decision Making Team for Binghamton schools, mentoring for Odyssey of the Mind, and participating as board member of Binghamton El Charcon Sister Cities Project. Active in the arts, Jane was involved with the American Dance Asylum, the Morris team, and in 1999, Jane received the Heart of the Arts Award, presented by the Southern Tier Institute for Arts in Education. She was also an avid supporter of humanitarian efforts, particularly those to encourage and develop equal opportunities for girls and women. These efforts included her support of the American Association of University Women, receiving their Distinguished Women of Achievement Award in 2009, and serving as President in 2011-2012. Her participation in Tropical Forestry Initiative and involvement in the Los Arboles neighborhood and schools in Costa Rica was yet another expression of her devotion to education. Jane is predeceased by her father and mother, Frank and Ethel Suk. She leaves behind her loving husband of 29 years, Richard Andrus; her daughters, Janine Stuart, and Alexis Andrus with her partner Jon; her stepsons Holt Andrus, his wife Miriam and daughter Natalia, and Erik Andrus, his wife Erica and sons Julien and Robin; and her hijo panameño Loris Cabrera and family. She also leaves behind sister Nancy Suk Valente, brother-in-law Frank and niece Rebecca; and numerous loving members of the extended Andrus family. The family will receive friends on Tuesday, April 8 from 4-7PM at the McDevitt & McManus Funeral Home Inc., 88 Front Street, Binghamton, NY. In lieu of flowers, the family has established a memorial scholarship to benefit Binghamton University Master's students majoring in early childhood education. Gifts may be made to the BU Foundation Memorial Account #10351. Note "In memory of Jane Stuart-Andrus" in the memo section of your check. Mail to: Binghamton University Foundation, PO Box 6005, Binghamton, NY 13902-6005. Secure, online credit card gifts may be made at www.giving.binghamton.edu. Select "Other, please specify" from the account drop-down menu, and then type "In memory of Jane Stuart-Andrus, BUF Memorial Account 10351" in the space provided.