May 15, 1947 - June 22, 2023 Jane Ellen Dutcher (76), beloved partner, daughter, friend, mentor, and motherly figure to many, passed away peacefully at her home in
Millersville, MD on June 22, 2023, surrounded by loved ones. Jane's courageous battle with cancer came to an end, but her spirit and the impact she made on those around her will live on forever. She is survived by her devoted significant other, Jeffrey Hellen, her nieces Julie and Jodie Dutcher, sister-in-law, Miriam Dutcher, children of the heart Brian and Laurel Pagliai, Zachary Johnson, Jackie and Jon Britchford, Lockland Younce, Jordan and Arfel Hellen, sister of the heart, Kimberly Bearry, and over 20 Naval Academy Midshipmen that she and Jeff sponsored. Jane was preceded in death by her brother, Daniel Dutcher Jr., in 2020. She leaves behind a legacy of warmth and kindness that extended beyond her immediate family. Born on May 15, 1947, in
Rome, NY, Jane was the daughter of Rose Perillo and Daniel Dutcher Sr. She shared a close bond with her brother, Daniel. After graduating from Rome Free Academy, Jane pursued higher education at William Woods University in
Fulton, MO, and later at State University of New York at Oswego. Jane's professional journey was marked by tenacity and dedication. She began her career as a passionate 9th-grade math teacher before joining NCR and eventually IBM, where she retired after over 20 years of valued service. In her retirement, Jane found joy in her involvement with Busy Bee Treasures, her chair repurposing and upholstery business. Beyond her career, Jane was a woman of diverse passions. She indulged in crafting, Japanese flower arranging (Ikenobo), and culinary arts. Particularly, her love for bringing people together through her keen ability to cook and entertain stood out as one of Jane's most noteworthy talents. One of her proudest accomplishments emerged from her passion for private aviation, as she obtained her Private Pilot's License. Jane was known for her unwavering commitment to various organizations, including the Naval Academy Sponsor Parent Program, Chair Whimsy in Dallas, the Washington D.C. Japanese Flower Arranging Chapter, and Local by Design at the Gallery. A memorial service will be held in honor of Jane's life on June 27th, 2023 at John M. Taylor Funeral Home of Annapolis at 11:30 am, preceded by a visitation beginning at 10:00 am. The family expresses their gratitude to Dawn, Lattie K, and the artisans of the Local by Design Gallery for their unwavering support during this difficult time. Jane will forever be remembered for her love, intelligence, and creativity. Her dedication to education and her ability to balance business and artistry set her apart. As we bid farewell to our beloved Jane, we honor her legacy by cherishing the memories she left us and embracing the values she held dear. An online guest book is available at
www.johnmtaylorfuneralhome.comPublished by The Capital Gazette on Jun. 25, 2023.