Ina Jane (Billingslea) Bryan, born December 14, 1929, of Grandview, Missouri passed away February 5, 2024. Jane was born in Jackson County, Missouri, the only child of Ina Lane (Edmonds) and Joe Alexander Billingslea. She attended school in Grandview and graduated in 1947. She then attended the University of Kansas City for two years before transferring to Central Missouri State College where she earned a Bachelor of Education degree. She was a member of Theta Sigma Upsilon, now Alpha Gamma Delta. Upon graduation in 1951, she began teaching English and Social Studies at Grandview Junior High. On August 1, 1952, she wed James Edward Bryan. Four years later, she transferred to Grandview High School, first teaching English and Social Studies, then becoming the Librarian in 1967 until her retirement in 1991. Jane also obtained a Master of Science in Education from Central Missouri State College.
Jane was a voting member of the Cherokee Nation. Throughout her life, she was active in the Order of Eastern Star, serving in the local chapter as District Deputy Grand Matron in 1961 and Grand Organist of the State of Missouri in 1966. She was Job’s Daughters local guardian, Grand Guardian of the State of Missouri, and Grand Organist of the International Order of Job’s Daughters.
Jane was a member of St. Matthew Presbyterian church. She served on the Grandview Board of Education, was involved in the Grandview Education Foundation of which the annual “Distinguished Alumni” award is named after her, Grandview Historical Society, her sorority alumni club, General Federated Women’s Club, and Grandview Retired School Personnel. She was a Girl Scout leader, avid bridge player, member the Taco Tuesday group and a Chief’s fan.
In later years, she returned to her love of horses. She showed American Saddlebred horses in local shows, Louisville, Kentucky and fulfilled a childhood dream by showing at the American Royal.
She was preceded in death by her parents and husband, Jim. She is survived by cousin, Greg Edmonds, and his wife Patricia; like a daughter, Sharon Hirschler, and her husband Bill. She is also survived by many people who loved and cared for her. Jane was an incredibly special and generous lady who will be greatly missed.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Grandview Education Foundation, Jane Bryan Community Scholarship, PO Box 546, Grandview MO 64030. www.Grandviewedfoundation.com/support-a-fund
