Jane W. Heesen, 89, formerly of Leaf Park and Woodcrest Villa, Lancaster, passed away on Thursday, October 2, 2014, at the Mennonite Home in Lancaster. Born August 9, 1925 in Philadelphia, she was the daughter of the late Harold and Genevieve (Cavanaugh) Wagner. A 1943 graduate of St. Hubert's High School for Girls, Philadelphia, Jane worked as secretary in the District Engineer's Office of the Philadelphia Board of Education from 1945 to 1953.

Jane was a charter member of St. Philip the Apostle Church, Lancaster, where she served as secretary for Religious Education from 1971 to 1980, as a member of the choir from 1983 to 2002, and as facilitator for the Adult Bible Study group. She was very active in the Pro-Life movement for many years and a member of the Serra Club for vocations since 1989. In support of her husband's career, Jane actively participated in the Campus Club at Millersville University, and shared her culinary talents in preparing international dinner parties for students and professors in the Foreign Language Department. Above all, Jane was a dedicated, loving homemaker, mother, and grandmother to her many children and grandchildren, whom she cherished together with her husband Philip. Her happiest activities included hosting memorable dinners on holidays and special occasions, traveling with Phil during their retirement years, here and abroad and often with friends. Best of all, Jane enjoyed spending time with her family. Over the years she lovingly and tirelessly met their needs and brought them joy. She was a rare jewel and her family fondly remembers how her selfless love and uplifting example enhanced their lives. Jane's sister, Mary Jane Payne, preceded her in death. Surviving is her husband of sixty-two years, Philip T. Heesen, Ph.D. and their six children: Jane H. Knapp, Psy.D. and husband, Samuel, Ed.D.; Philip T. Heesen, Jr. and wife, Cindy; Donna H. Hanlon and husband, Raymond; Gregory H. Heesen and wife, Margaret; Jerome P. Heesen and wife, Jennifer; and Rosemary A. Goresh and husband, Michael. Also surviving Jane are her eighteen grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren.

Friends will be received on Tuesday, October 7, 2014, from 10:00 A.M. until the time of the Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00 A.M. at St. Philip the Apostle Roman Catholic Church, 2111 Millersville Pike, Lancaster, PA 17603, with Rev. Mark E. Weiss as Celebrant. Interment will be in St. Joseph New Catholic Cemetery, Lancaster. Please omit flowers. Memorial contributions may be made in Jane's memory to Hospice & Community Care, 685 Good Drive, P.O. Box 4125, Lancaster, PA 17604-4125.