Jane Gregory

Jane Gregory

Age 83 * Modena, NY

Jane Gregory, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, devoted educator and lifelong learner, passed away peacefully on March 19, 2026 at home in Modena, NY, with loved ones nearby.

A deeply kind and generous woman, Jane lived a life defined by compassion, curiosity, and an unwavering commitment to others. She believed deeply in the power of education and she dedicated her life to helping family, friends, students and future teachers find their voices, grow in confidence, and lead lives of purpose and fulfillment.

Born in Kingsport, TN, Jane's passion for learning and social justice took root early. She received her Bachelor's degree in English from Emory and Henry College. There she participated in a formative civil rights workshop led by Jesse Jackson, an experience that reflected her lifelong commitment to human dignity, equality, and justice. She went on to earn her Master of Arts in Teaching from Columbia University, launching a remarkable career in education. For 23 years, she taught English and creative writing at Arlington High School, inspiring generations of students with her encouragement, insight, and belief in their potential. After retiring from Arlington, she embarked on a second career as an adjunct professor at SUNY New Paltz, where she mentored and supervised student teachers until her retirement in 2022. In every role, she was known for empowering others to discover their own voice and for nurturing in them a sense of purpose and possibility. She was also honored as an NEA Fellow and participated in summer scholarship programs that reflected her dedication to professional growth and excellence in teaching.

Jane was known not only for her intellect, but for her warmth and creativity. She was a talented storyteller, wildlife photographer, and baker who found joy in sharing what she created with others, approaching everything she did with generosity and care.

Above all, she put others first. Her kindness was quiet but constant, woven into everyday acts of love and support for her family, friends, colleagues, and students. She had a rare ability to make people feel seen, heard, and valued, inspiring them to become more fully themselves.

She met her best friend and loving husband David at a Methodist camp just before attending college together, a chance meeting that grew into a lifelong partnership grounded in shared purpose and deep affection.

She is survived by her husband, David; her daughter, Andrea Maasik, and son-in-law, John Maasik; her son, Michael Gregory; and her cherished grandchildren, Alek Maasik, Evan Maasik, Josh Gregory, and Mhina Gregory. She was also the loving grandmother of Tyreace Gregory, who predeceased her.

A life so rooted in kindness, education, and empowerment leaves a lasting legacy. In the many students she inspired, the teachers she guided, and the family she loved so deeply, Jane's influence will continue to be felt for generations.

A private celebration of life will be held by her family later this year.