Jane Samuels

Jane Samuels, a lifelong resident of Deep River, died peacefully on May 8, 2025, at age eighty-one. She was born on March 28, 1944, to Rita (Palmer) Samuels and Dr. Harold Samuels. Jane received a BS in Chemistry from Simmons College and a MS in Physical Sciences from Bryn Mawr. She taught physics and chemistry for many years at the Williams School in New London, where she was loved and respected by her students, many of whom she continued to mentor after their graduations.

Jane was an accomplished horsewoman and won countless awards for competitive trail riding. She volunteered and served on the board of High Hopes Therapeutic Riding. She cared selflessly for her beloved horses and enjoyed nothing better than exploring the woods with fellow riders.

She served in town government as a dedicated member of the Planning and Zoning Commission. Jane was the caretaker for her mother in her last years, enabling Rita to live comfortably at home throughout her life

Jane is survived by her sister Caroline Samuels, brother, Palmer Morrel-Samuels, brother-in-law Lewis Markoff, sister-in-law Susan Morrel-Samuels, nephews Alex and Dan Markoff and Elias Samuels, nieces Ana (Morrel-Samuels) Austin and Eva Morrel-Samuels. She was preceded in death by her parents and her sister, Sayre Samuels.

A graveside memorial service at the Jewish burial ground at Fountain Hill Cemetery at 2:00 on May 16th. Donations in Jane’s name may be directed to High Hopes Therapeutic Riding, at highhopestr.org.