Jane H. Wheatley

Jane H. Wheatley, age 81, of Novi, formerly of Bonita Springs, Florida, passed away peacefully on February 7, 2025. She was born on February 18, 1943 in Du Quoin, Illinois; daughter of Ray and Marguerite (Duckworth) Holloway. Jane was united in marriage to Bruce C. Wheatley on August 17, 1963; they shared 61 years of unwavering commitment to each other. 

Jane graduated from Du Quoin Township High School with the Class of 1961 and went on to attend Southern Illinois University. She later moved to Colorado to support her husband’s education, putting her own studies on hold. After Bruce graduated, he lovingly awarded her an honorary PhT degree—"Putting Husband Through." Jane’s devotion to her family was evident throughout her life, from the early years of marriage to raising her sons and wholeheartedly supporting her grandchildren’s endeavors.

Jane was a woman of deep faith and a devoted member of the First Presbyterian Church in Bonita Springs. She served on the pastoral search committee and found joy in teaching Sunday school.

Jane was an inspirational and remarkable woman who dedicated her life to volunteerism. In Bonita Springs, she served on the Operations Committee of the Café of Life where she also served as a cook and was a founding member of Friends of the Salvation Army. Her commitment to helping others began in Ohio, where she volunteered with the American Heart Association and Hospice of the Western Reserve as an in-home caregiver. In recognition of her selfless service, Jane was honored as Naples Woman of the Year in 2010—an award she sincerely deserved. 

Jane had a fabulous sense of humor, and her laugh was infectious. Affectionately known as “Queen Bee” and “Beautiful Granny” by her grandchildren, she was admired for her boundless love, generosity, and thoughtful gifts. A natural hostess, Jane had a gift for making everyone feel welcome and celebrated, cherishing the many friendships she formed. She was a great listener who cared deeply for others. 

Jane loved to travel with family and friends, calling their friend travel group the “Luggage Convention.” Of all her adventures, London, England, held a special place in her heart. She also liked golfing and often enjoyed drinking her Coca-Cola with extra ice at the 19th hole. She had an incredible sense of rhythm, making her a fantastic dancer. Later in life, she embraced learning the piano and always found joy in the music of Elvis Presley and Neil Diamond.

Jane is survived by her husband Bruce; her sons, Brett (Carol) Wheatley and Michael (Aneesha) Wheatley; her grandchildren, Sarah, Matthew, Sariah, Avery, and Alex; her sisters-in-law Carolyn Holloway and Joy Holloway; 3 nieces and 4 nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, her infant son Bruce Alan Wheatley, and her brothers Ray E. Holloway and Robert E. Holloway.

A celebration of Jane’s life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate memorial contributions to Café of Life, PO Box 367794, Bonita Springs, FL 34136.