Mary Jan Jeannette (Jan) Morgan Wands

Jan is survived by her three children Sheila W. Cockey (Josh) of King George VA, Robert D. Wands of Burke VA, and Karen W. Parker of Fairfax VA. In addition she is survived by sister Helen Morgan Williamson of Toledo OH, granddaughter Elizabeth M. Burkhard (John) and great-grandson Morgan G. Burkhard of Charles Town WV, as well as several nieces and nephews. She was pre-deceased by her husband of over 50 years Ralph Clinton Wands and her brother Orris W. Morgan.

Jan was born April 15, 1920 in St. Clairsville, Ohio to Bess and John Morgan. She graduated from Kent State University with a BS in dietetics and home management. She met her husband Ralph at KSU and they married on Sept. 20, 1941. Ralph joined the Navy and they lived in Cambridge MA during his training. While Ralph was serving with the Navy during WW II, she worked in the offices of The Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company in Akron Ohio. Once the war was over, Jan and Ralph moved to St. Paul, MN where their 3 children were born and they lived from 1946 to 1964. During this time Jan raised their 3 children and immersed herself in volunteer and school activities. In 1964 the family moved to Vienna VA where Jan continued similar activities. There, she was a member of Little River United Church of Christ where she served as a Deaconess, as director of Sunday Schools, and helped out in the church office, among many other things. She moved to Greenspring Village in Springfield VA in 2004 and truly enjoyed her life there, meeting so many exciting and interesting people. An excellent and joyful cook, she was also an avid bridge player, loved to travel and explore new places, and enjoyed classical music. She was a well-read and delightful conversationalist, always an interesting and supportive companion.

She is remembered by her family and friends as a beautiful person.

A Celebration of Life service will be held, the Rev. David B. Lindsey officiating, in the chapel at Greenspring Village, 4701 Spring Village Drive; Springfield VA on Wednesday, January 25, 2017 at 1:00 pm. All are invited to attend. There will be a reception following the service. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to one of the following:

Greenspring Village Staff Appreciation Fund; 7410 Spring Village Drive; Springfield VA 22150

Greater Springfield Volunteer Fire Department; 7011 Backlick Road.; Springfield VA 22150

Kent State University Alumni Fund; Williamson Alumni Center, 305 S. Lincoln Sreet; Kent OH 44242

Little River United Church of Christ; 8410 Little River Turnpike; Annandale VA 22003

The family would like to thank all of the wonderful caregivers who were with Mom during her last months.

Please view and sign the guestbook below.