Jane Elizabeth Hallock

Jane Elizabeth Lomason, born in Detroit, Michigan, to William and Neva Lomason, peacefully passed away at the age of 81. Her father, known as 'Daddy Bill,' thrived in the automotive industry, while her mother Neva (nee. Wigle) was a talented pianist.

Jane survived her cherished brother Harry, who was well known for playing pranks on Jane- such as putting creepy crawlies in her bed. She was able to exact her revenge on Harry by booby-trapping the stairs, so Harry would get caught coming home after curfew. Jane is fondly remembered by her sister, Anne Bray, who shared a sisterly bond founded on affection and devotion to family.

Overcoming some initial obstacles, or more accurately, surviving the infamous "Pressure Cooker-Spinach-on-the-ceiling-incident" of 1962 at Carnegie Mellon University's Home Economics Department, she switched (or rather, was requested to switch) her major to English literature. Graduating with determination- a character trait that would come to define her life- she later earned her Master of Arts in Theater from Villanova University while raising her children, and exposing them to the wonders of Musical Theater, belting Broadway tunes throughout the house as she prepared for auditions. Many fond memories of "Annie Get Your Gun," "The Sound of Music," and "Bye Bye Birdie" remain alive through her children.

Jane devoted much of her career to teaching English Literature at Ursinus College and pursuing her passion for acting and directing at local theaters, especially the Barn Playhouse. A notable performance was her role as the Baroness in The Sound of Music where she forgot the second half of the Baroness's signature song. However, showing her pluck, she proceeded to ad lib lyrics and make up an entire dance number that was not in the script.

A keynote speaker in film literature circles, she shared insights on Hitchcock, and loved to dig into the explorations around the relationships between Film and Literature. A lifelong learner, Jane was an avid reader who loved history and literature and would spend many hours discussing the nuances of her latest read with her children.

In 1982, Jane met Myron Hallock, a widower with four daughters. They blended their families, including Jane's three sons from a previous marriage, and created a vibrant tapestry of love and support that rivaled the "Brady Bunch," in what a true Sit-Com-Dramedy should look like! Life presented many challenges and difficulties through the years, but Jane and Myron met each one with love, kindness, respect and above all, unity.

They officially tied the knot on February 20, 1999, in an intimate ceremony witnessed by their children, spouses, and grandchildren (one grandchild in particular demonstrated her approval by rolling on the floor and crying during the entire ceremony, only to be soothed by Jane's comfort for the photos). It was a deeply felt and beautiful event that was long overdue. Over the years, their sons and daughters embraced each other as family, with many fond memories surrounding holidays, the beach house, family reunions, and the small moments that deepen bonds. Jane and Myron's unwavering partnership became the cornerstone of a resilient and vivid family bond that continues to thrive and expand among their children.

Active members of Christ Ascension Lutheran Church, Jane and Myron served on various committees, making the church a central part of their family's life events.

In a courageous fight against cancer, Myron Hallock passed away on December 5, 2017, with Jane rarely leaving his side. Tragically, their daughter, Melinda Hallock, departed too soon on August 9, 2021.

Jane is survived by three sons: Tony Agostinelli, Mark and wife Andrea Agostinelli, Matthew and wife Margarita Tremols; three daughters: Bonnie and husband Christopher Ivaniski, Bobbi Ann Helmich, and Merri Beth Hallock; and nine grandchildren: Alyse and husband Anthony Russo, Jonathon, Jamie Lee, and Isabelle Helmich, Christopher and Alex Agostinelli, Mateo, Malia, and Misha Agostinelli; and great-granddaughters Ariana and Melani Russo.

Jane and Myron's love, indelible and without reservation, serves as an enduring gift to their family. Jane's spirited feistiness, love of dogs, sense of humor and style, and ability to create a home- anywhere she was- will be deeply missed.

Funeral Service:

Saturday, January 27, 2024

Meet the family at 9:00 am, Service at 10:00 am (Eastern Time)

Christ Ascension Lutheran Church

8300 Germantown Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19118