Jill Marie Doane
October 24, 1951 - September 12, 2023
Jill Marie Doane, age 71, passed away at home on September 12, 2023. Jill graduated from Chesterton High School and earned a Masters of Education at her beloved Indiana University. She taught in the Portage Township School System for 30 years, retiring at age 55. Jill’s family was always appreciative of her valued leadership and dependable support which continued during her years of retirement.
Jill’s love for her children and grandchildren was unconditional and she was happiest when surrounded by her family. She enjoyed playing tennis and pickleball, socially and competitively, with so many valued friends and teammates. She enjoyed the thrill of victory in her athletic endeavors as well as those of her children.
She was preceded in death by her parents Jean and John Williams and her sister Mary Lynne Williams. She is survived by her devoted husband Jim, daughter Jamie (Alexander) Darr, son Tyler Doane, and grandchildren Nicholas, Juliette, Penelope, Logan, Peter, and Sebastian Darr. Surviving siblings are Sue Ann (Paul) Watkins and John Williams as well as many loving nieces, nephews and so many special friends.
Jill fought metastatic breast cancer for over two years with the same intensity and fortitude with which she lived life. Jill and her family are forever grateful for the support they received during this time. A family and friends celebration will be held in the Fall. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to Valparaiso Dressed for School at dressedforschool.org.
GUESTBOOK
Condolences from the Petty family. -Richard Petty
Sincere condolences to Jim and family! Lots of memories of post college gatherings that me and Amy will forever cherish! Rest in Peace Jill! We will always remember the good times! -Gary and Amy Duke
My deepest sympathies to the entire family. Jill was one of my best friends. We met in our 30's and played tennis and pickleball for close to 40 years. May her memory be eternal. -Christine Monanteras
My sweet dear friend you will be truly missed. So many memories of past fun we all had playing tennis and Pickleball. And get togethers at your beautiful lakeside home and trips on the boat and swimming. You were truly a ball of energy for such a tiny gal! U always amazed me. You helped me so much when we both were going Thur our breast cancer. I will never forget you and our friendship. Rest In Peace dear friend and I will see you in Heaven one day. -Linda Marrs
Jim and Family, Sincerest condolences for the loss of Jill. I remember and appreciated her dedication and enthusiasm as a Portage teacher. She no doubt had a positive impact on the lives of countless students as well as modeling educational excellence to other educators. In her retirement she recognized the continuing importance of education as she supported Jim in his return to educational leadership. Jill was a wonderful person to have in your life and may those memories have you smile. May her memory be eternal. -Mike Berta
Dear Jim and family, Sending you my deepest condolences in the loss of you wife and mother. May God be with you all through this time of loss. -Sue Bowman White
To the entire Doane family, we send our love and affection as you face the loss of your beloved Jill. Sincerely, Stephanie and Fred... the Pacific Northwest cousins. -Stephanie Kaufhold
I was just told about Jill's passing and had no idea. I am so very sorry for your families loss. I always had fun with Jill when we had our October birthday get togethers and living just down the street from you for many years. I hope you and your family members have had some healing. -Gwen Rapley
