Jane Breckenridge

Emma Jane Smith Breckenridge, born Nov. 15, 1925, to Alma and Virgil Smith in Joplin, Missouri, the third child in a family of 4, passed away April 11, 2013, at the age of 87 ½ years. She married Allen J. Breckenridge June 25, 1944. To this union, three children were born: David Allen, Carol Lei, and Mark Scott. Jane and Allen had 6 grandchildren, Christopher, Jessica, Jessica Ann, Joshua, Johnathan, and Jerome; one great-grandchild, Giuliana Margaux; and several nieces and nephews, Bill, Evelyn, Randy, Jane, Judy, and Jim. Also surviving is her sister-in-law, Mae Smith. Preceding her in death were her husband, her parents, and her three brothers, Bill, Cecil, and Glenn. Ministers in the Community of Christ church, Jane and Allen served in many sections of the United States, as well as many years in Tahiti, French Polynesia. Jane was a faithful disciple in the Community of Christ, and in the 1980's was ordained to the office of priest. Later, she was ordained an elder. In the 1970's, Jane and Allen moved to St. Charles, Missouri, and later St. Peters, where she was extremely active in congregational life. Jane's exceptional desire to connect with and affirm people around her were found to be a blessing that helped unify any congregation of which she was a part. After a debilitating stroke in 1994, Jane and Allen moved to The Groves, a retirement facility in Independence, Missouri. There she was much loved by residents and staff alike. When she rolled down the halls, she greeted everyone by name, and took a personal interest in each person she encountered. The dining room table where she sat became the focal point of laughter and good cheer. At The Groves she became a volunteer, visiting shut-ins and those that needed a boost. She was a continual source of amazement to the physical therapy staff through her determination not to allow physical limitations to hold her back from living to the fullest. She signed up for most any outing, enjoying all the opportunities available to her. Jane was intensely devoted to her family. She and Allen visited their children and grandchildren as much as they could, putting many miles on their car traveling to Iowa, Ohio, and Florida. Jane was greatly beloved by her grandchildren, as she spent much time playing games with them or taking them places they would enjoy. Jane's faithful devotion to her family, her congregation, and her God, and her genuine caring for others will make her greatly missed by many. However, we rest assured that she is now free and livening heaven with her laughter and love. Memorial donations may be made to Community of Christ at the Groves, 1515 West White Oak, Independence, MO 64050 or Community of Christ - Twin Rivers, 2790 Hwy K, O'Fallon, MO 63366.