Jane’s journey has ended. Surrounded by her family and those she cherished, Jane Rodgers, nee Webb, passed away peacefully, on Saturday, November 23rd, with courage and dignity. Right into her final days, Jane taught us how to live with purpose, love wholeheartedly, and find joy, even in the toughest times. Throughout her journey with cancer, Jane embraced each day as she always had—finding beauty in nature, family, and the warmth of her wide-reaching community. Known for her boundless curiosity and fun-loving spirit, Jane leaves behind a legacy of great strength, gentle and kind humbleness, and an appreciation for life in all its forms.
Jane shared a deep love and respect for her high school sweetheart, lifelong best friend, and husband, David. Together, they built an incredible life, always ready to say yes to the next escapade and always living in possibility. Jane was a constant source of love and support for her children, Jamie (Dana and daughter Dharyn) and Jenny (Rustin), and she was genuinely proud of who they have become. She also had a very special bond with her grandson, Emmett. Jane will be dearly missed by her loving brother Jim, and his wife Jan, with whom she shared many adventures. She is also remembered with love by step-brothers Chris and Rob (Debbie) Garrick, along with Bill, David and Bob (Laura) Beecroft. Forever to be missed by her in-laws, who meant the world to her, Dan (Cathy), Becca (Judy), Mark (Carol), and Jay (Cindy), all of whom cherished her for her authenticity and her easy laughter.
Jane grew up in Barrie and was blessed with close relationships with her predeceased parents – Mom, Audrey Webb, and Dad, Jack Webb (Joan), along with Jack’s predeceased wife Evelyn. She was a gifted athlete at Barrie Central Collegiate and part of the esteemed French horn section of the band. After earning her nursing degree at Toronto Western, Jane made a meaningful impact on many lives through her work in Pine Falls Manitoba, and later in Barrie. As a medical whiz, she combined her knowledge with a remarkable ability to care, offering comfort, wisdom, and support to anyone who needed it. How many of us turned to Jane with a medical question?!
Her life was defined by her passions and deep love for the world around her. Jane had an unshakeable respect for nature, finding joy in birds, fish, and animals of all kinds. Over the years, she shared her life with numerous cherished dogs. Most recently we know that Bella was always either on Jane’s lap, nestled into the snuggly carrier in her sweatshirt, or getting treats and kisses.
An avid gardener, Jane had the magical ability to transform any landscape into a sanctuary. She worked tirelessly on the many homes she and Dave shared in Ontario, Manitoba, Florida, and Arizona, always creating welcoming spaces for friends and family. Chapleau, in particular, was always special to Jane, a place that was synonymous with her love of the outdoors and wild spaces. Their new property on Lake Manitouwabing will be a final gift for Dave – a place to focus his talents and energies, with future forest trails and a bonfire pit standing as a fitting legacy for Jane.
A lover of the arts and a strong advocate for Indigenous peoples, Jane was always curious about new ideas and perspectives, embracing them in her non-judgemental, unpretentious way. Her self-deprecating humour and loyalty made her a cherished friend to everyone lucky enough to know her. Jane’s sweet tooth was legendary; the mischievous twinkle in her eye when she reached for a treat was just precious.
Jane had so many interests and talents. She was equally comfortable holding a fishing rod, golf club, motorcycle handlebar, gardening spade, hypodermic needle, baby, or canoe paddle. She was much more at home in rubber boots or hiking shoes than in high heels.
Throughout her courageous journey with cancer, Jane’s friends and family described her as feisty, a warrior, and someone who faced each day with grace, dignity, and humour. Her immense circle of loved ones marveled at her strength and spirit, but we all knew how much her core family - Dave, Jamie, and Jenny – meant to her. The family extends heartfelt thanks to the Cancer Care Centre at RVH, in particular her Oncologist from day one, Dr Isabel Li, as well as the RVH Palliative Care team, along with Mary Lynne McDonald for their compassionate care.
A celebration of life will be held in the spring for all family and friends. For those wishing to honour Jane’s memory (in lieu of flowers), donations can be made to the RVH Cancer Centre or a charity of your choice.
Jane truly loved well and was well loved in return - a lesson she modelled for us every day. She will be hugely missed, but her gifts of love and light will continue to inspire us all.
For those wishing to send a message of condolence to the family, please email [email protected]
Donations can be through www.marshalldrivercremation.com