Fortified with the Sacraments of Holy Mother Church on August 26, 2026. Beloved wife of the late Jack L. Jett for 57 years, loving mother of Brian (Dina) Jett, the late Inez (Brad) Pace, Valerie (Paul) Howard, Allen Jett, Paul (Joan) Jett and Melissa Jett; dearest grandmother of David and Daniel Vaeth, Joshua (Josh) Pace, Ethan and Arabella Howard, Brennan, Dorian Martinez (nee Jett), Carson and Addison Jett, Nathan Ganley dearest great-grandmother of Keegan and Conner Pace, Milo Martinez, Liam, Ava and Carson Jett; dearest daughter of the late Richard and Eunice Smith; sister of the late Eugene and Doug (survived by Diane) and Roger Smith, the late Elizabeth (Bess Ann) Treece, the late Nancy Novack, the late Glenda Buhr; dear aunt, cousin and friend of many.
Mary Jane was a remarkable woman. To know her was to be welcomed, encouraged, and loved. She had a rare gift for connection, she never knew a stranger, only friends she hadn’t met yet. Her artistic talent was matched only by her generosity, whether she was painting, sewing, crafting, or cooking, especially her signature deserts.
Her faith was the steady center of her life. A devout Catholic, she served for many years as a dedicated volunteer at St. Catherine Laboure, with the Ladies of Charity, the blood drive and bereavement luncheon coordinator, and eucharistic minister, among many other roles. She also devoted her time to the Boy Scouts and to the Manchester Parks Department, and many other organizations that benefited from her kindness and leadership.
She was an avid reader, a thoughtful listener, and a woman whose kindness shaped every space she entered. Her legacy lives on in the countless lives she touched through her art and baked goods, her service, her devotion to her family and friends, and her boundless compassion.
Services: Memorial visitation at KUTIS AFFTON Chapel, 10151 Gravois, on Friday, September 4 from 4-7 p.m. Memorial Mass on Saturday, September 5 at 10 a.m. at St. Catherine Laboure Catholic Church (9740 Sappington 63128). Private interment at Immaculate Conception Cemetery (Owensville, MO). In lieu of flowers, contributions to American Cancer Society are appreciated.
So very sorry to hear of Mary Jane’s passing. Have not seen or heard from her for quite some time but have known her since our first grade together at Immaculate Conception Catholic School in Owensville.
So sorry to hear of her passing . I graduated high school with her. Friends for many years
So Sorry to hear about Mary. We went to school together from 6 grade thur highschool.
Knew Mary Jane for a long time. Dear friend who was a delight to be around. She made the bridesmaid outfits for the bridesmaids in our wedding. She will be missed.
Aunt Jane was my Godmother and played the part well. Growing up, she and Uncle Jack always made space for me. I’m sure it was to mostly occupy Melissa, but we had a lot of fun. She always had time for me and made me feel special. I will never forget her kindness!
Mary Jane was the senior, warm lovely and special friend to all in our art class. She was a contemporary of everyone from 40 and above. We all feel the loss. She was a sincere listener. We are all moved by her passing. I don’t think anyone can sit in her chair. She touched us all with her simplicity and energy
Love. Mary Ann Gibson
I have had the pleasure of being Mary Jane’s friend and occasionally her student for over 35 years. For the past year or so, I was happy that I got to sit next to her in art class. She was an amazing artist and friend.
I have no doubt that she is in a better place, and I am happy that she is no longer suffering. She shared once, “I am ready to meet Jesus.” My response, “I know you are. I’m not ready for you to go.” She just smiled that wise, loving smile. Knowing she was ready brings me great comfort, and near the end of her suffering, I was as ready as I ever could be to let her go. I will always miss her.
My prayers and condolences to her beautiful family and many friends.
Mary Jane was a wonderful and caring neighbor for over 50 years. She will be greatly missed. If you needed anything she was always there for everyone even just to listen. Her many talents were abundant. Our thoughts and prayers go out to her family.