Jane Watson Cunningham

March 3, 1937 - November 18, 2024

It is with profound sadness that the family of Jane Watson (Mermis) Cunningham announces her peaceful passing at the age of 87, surrounded by the love of her family.

Born on March 3, 1937, in Columbus, Ohio, to the late Dr. James O. and Helen J. (Carney) Watson. Also preceded in death by her brother, Reverend J. Vincent Watson, O.P.

Deeply influenced by her father, who was one of the founders of Doctors Hospital, Jane became a lifelong supporter and champion of osteopathic medical care and education. She demonstrated her commitment through a variety of professional and volunteer positions in community relations and development at Doctors Hospital. She served on the Doctors Hospital Development Board, and with great pride served on the Osteopathic Heritage Foundation Board of Directors, ultimately serving as its Vice Chairperson. Additionally, Jane held various volunteer and leadership positions in the community, including the Kiwanis Club of Hilliard, Children’s Hunger Alliance, Ohio 4-H Foundation, and Northwest United Methodist Church.

Jane earned a bachelor’s degree in social sciences and secondary education from Saint Louis University and a master’s degree in guidance and counseling from Arizona State University. She held multiple teaching, counseling and fundraising positions at schools, colleges and human service agencies in Illinois and Central Ohio.

Jane lived a life filled with gratitude, grace, and selfless devotion to her family and friends. Jane is remembered for her unfailing optimism and kindness. She had a way of making everyone she met feel special and valued. Her laughter brightened our days, and her strength and resilience inspired us in countless ways. She was the cornerstone of our family, a guiding light whose wisdom, warmth, and unconditional love will be deeply missed.

Dearly loved by her four children: Bil (Jolene) Mermis, Marianne (Randall) McDaniel, Carolyn (Joe) Griffin, and Jim (Kim) Mermis. Grandchildren: Jarrod (Jessica) Mermis, Dakota (Sarah) Mermis, Sarah Griffin, Kate Griffin, Hannah Mermis, Norah Mermis, Aaron Mermis, Fallon Mermis, Silas Mermis, Calvin Mermis, Ivy Mermis and four great-grandchildren.

In her early twenties, while teaching in the Upper Arlington School System, she met her “forever friends;” Nancy (Ed) Strause and Marilyn (Russ) Barnes. They became the sisters she never had. Their deep bond was a cherished source of strength, joy and laughter throughout Jane’s life.

Jane is survived by her loving and devoted husband of 28 years, Clarence J. Cunningham. During their years together, Jane and Clarence enjoyed their travels around the world from numerous European countries to South America, as well as Australia, New Zealand and throughout the United States. Additionally, their shared commitment to service led them to many meaningful volunteer and philanthropic endeavors.

Jane was blessed with loving relationships through her marriage to Clarence. She is survived by his children: Larry (JoAnne) Cunningham and Russell (Lisa) Cunnigham. Six grandchildren by marriage: Elizabeth (Darren) Mitchell, Andrew (Chelsea Wellmer) Cunningham, Sarah (Hunter) Campbell, Emily Cunningham, Maggie Cunningham, Betsy Cunningham and five great-grandchildren.

On December 1, 2024, we will celebrate her remarkable life from 2p - 4p followed by a prayer service from 4p-5p at Schoedinger Dublin, 5980 Perimeter Drive, Dublin, Ohio 43017. Jane will be laid to rest at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church and Cemetery, in Somerset, Ohio. Memorial donations can be made to the Jane Watson Cunningham Endowed Scholarship ℅ Osteopathic Heritage Foundation 6785 Bobcat Way Suite 200, Dublin, OH 43016