Jane M. Small

Jane Margaret Small, 89, of Battle Creek, after fighting cancer for 5 months, died Wednesday afternoon, July 22nd at Bronson At Home Good Samaritan Hospice Residence. She was born March 17, 1926, in Saginaw, the daughter of George and Zelma (Schultz) Salmer. She graduated from Saginaw High School. She married her "prince charming" William A. Small on June 12, 1948, who preceded her in death on January 27, 2002. They were married over 52 years. Her husband's work took her from Vasser, Michigan to California, Chicago, Minneapolis, Battle Creek, Washington D.C. and then back to Battle Creek in 1974 where she lived until her death. Aside from her favorite job as wife and mother, she held a wide range of positions from society reporter to various administrative roles in schools, businesses and government. After retirement, Jane and her husband enjoyed living during the winter in Ellenton, Florida.

Jane was an active member of Chapel Hill United Methodist Church and especially enjoyed singing in the Choir. She also loved singing in community choral groups, being a long-term member of the Valentine Chorus and Morning Musical. Her family and friends enjoyed her hospitality, her zest for life, her constant positive attitude, her joyful spirit, and her unwavering love and support. She also baked excellent cookies.

She is survived by a brother Gary Salmer (Florence), and a sister Alice Alberts (James), her three children, Sandra J. Shortt (Jeffrey), W. Curtis (Lori), and Keith E. (Celeste), eleven grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Bill, and five of her seven siblings.

The family will receive friends 2:00 to 4:00 & 6:00 to 8:00 p.m., Monday, July 27th at Farley Estes Dowdle Funeral Home & Cremation Care. Funeral services to celebrate Jane's life will be held 11:00 a.m., Tuesday, July 28th at Chapel Hill United Methodist Church, 157 Chapel Hill Drive, Battle Creek. Interment will follow at Fort Custer National Cemetery. Her family suggests memorial tributes may be made to Chapel Hill United Methodist Church, Avant Ministries, Battle Creek Habitat for Humanity, Bronson At Home Good Samaritan Hospice Residence, or a charity of your choice. Personal messages for the family may be placed at www.farleyestesdowdle.com.