Jane Carolyn Davis Shambaugh

Jane Carolyn Davis Shambaugh, a talented Toledo educator and local women’s advocate, died on January 9, 2023, at her home at the age of 92.  Jane’s life honored creativity, leadership, and an enduring faith.  Jane is survived by her son, Roger Shambaugh and his wife, Karen, and their children, Evan, Peter, and Audrey; and by her daughter, Carol Shambaugh Coder, and her daughter, Claire.

Born in Toledo on October 19, 1930, to Eugene and Helen Davis, Jane grew up with a sense of purpose and responsibility and was deeply involved with the family business, Gene Davis Appliance.  Often, Jane would say, “I love my parents; they brought records, sound systems, and television to Toledo.”

As a child, Jane took Saturday art classes at the Toledo Museum of Art where she developed a lifelong interest in art. From sketching to acrylic painting, to graphic design, to flower arranging. Her mantra was “always make everything beautiful.” Later in life, Jane was pleased to serve as a volunteer at the Museum and as an usher at the Peristyle.”  

With her outgoing personality and love of people, she was a natural candidate for an education degree at the University of Toledo.  After graduation from UT, she took graduate classes at the University of Michigan.  

Jane began a successful teaching career with the Toledo Public Schools and was soon asked to assist WGTE Public Television in bringing “Sesame Street” to Toledo. Later, she consulted with Fred Rogers of “Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood” as he developed his acclaimed programs.

Always an advocate for women, Jane joined Planned Parenthood in 1980 where she developed innovative community programs. She was later given the Stanley Levinson award for outstanding service. Women in Communications, Inc. also honored Jane as a “Woman of Achievement” in 1991.

With compassion, Jane supported women’s empowerment, the Toledo arts community, and her family.

Services will be held at 12:00 P.M. on Tuesday, January 17, 2023, at Epworth United Methodist Church, 4855 West Central Avenue, Ottawa Hills, Ohio 43615.  Friends are invited to gather at 11:30 A.M. in the Chapel. Online condolences to reebfuneralhome.com

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