Jane McCracken Anderson

Jane McCracken Anderson, age 97, of Waynesville, NC passed away surrounded by family in her home on January 7, 2026.

Jane was born on October 4, 1928, to Wayne R. McCracken and Loyal Huggins McCracken in Hopewell, VA. during a family trip. The family returned to Macon County, NC and later moved to Haywood County, where she was raised.

After graduating High School, she attended Western Carolina University (previously Western Carolina Technical College). She later moved to Florida where she was the secretary/office manager at Winter Park Pines, a real estate development firm, for 40 plus years. Upon retirement, she moved back to Waynesville where she enjoyed having family and friends nearby. She was very outgoing, made numerous new friends and enjoyed an active social life. Jane was an avid animal lover, every stray knew they could find food and kindness at her door.

Jane was preceded in death by her parents, Wayne R. McCracken and Loyal Huggins McCracken and brothers James Robert “JR” McCracken and Billy Wayne McCracken, all of Waynesville, N.C.

She is survived by her children Doyle L. “Andy” Anderson (Mimi), Martha “Marty” A. Phillips (David) and Catherine “Katie” A. Woodson (Dennis), grandchildren Adrianne P Hadler (Carl) and John C. Phillips (Candice), six great-grandchildren, and a niece and nephew. Jane is also survived by numerous cousins.

Ms. Anderson was fortunate to have many family members and friends that enabled her to return to her beloved home after a short nursing home stay. Her family wants to thank the dedicated staff and friends that cared for her around the clock, enabling her to spend the end of her time here on earth in the only place she wanted to be, her family home. They all became like family to her and treated her as their family. Four Seasons Hospice provided care, comfort and support for Jane and her family.

The family will be having a Celebration of Life on June 6th, 2026, at 104 Poplar St. Waynesville. Everyone is welcome to stop by between 2 and 5 p.m. for the celebration.

In lieu of flowers please consider donations to a local Hospice or the Haywood County Animal Shelter.

Garrett Funerals and Cremations is caring for the Anderson family.