Graveside Memorial Service will be held at the Walters Cemetery, Walters, OK on Saturday, September 28, 2024, at 10:30 a.m., Rev. Paul Metcalfe officiating, under the direction of Hart Wyatt Funeral Home. Barbara Jane Mershon, also known as “Aunt Jane,” was born to Lee Frank and Gladys Ellena (Rice) Mershon on May 3, 1933, in Walters, Oklahoma. She departed this life in Lawton, OK on September 12, 2024, at the age of 91 years, 4 months, and 9 days.
Jane grew up in Walters, graduated from WHS in 1951. She then boarded a train and headed to Phillips University in Enid, OK. In 1955 she received her Bachelor’s Degree in Education. Later she received her Master’s Degree from Southwestern State College in Weatherford, OK. Jane began her teaching career in Kansas and soon moved to Lawton, teaching Physical Education at Eisenhower Middle School. While Jane taught, she proudly served as the sponsor for both Cheerleading and Yearbook. She retired in 1994 after 39 years in the teaching profession.
Jane was a faithful member of the Boulevard Christian Church, serving in various capacities. She was a Girl Scout camp leader. For many years, she taught private swimming lessons. “Aunt Jane” loved her family, and was faithful to attend the events of her nieces and nephew. She loved to shop, play BINGO, and enjoyed traveling, camping, and fishing. Leadership was Jane’s passion. She served on many boards including OEA, NEA, and also served as President of the Oklahoma Retired Teachers Association.
Jane was a Yellow Dog Democrat and was active for many years with the Comanche County Democratic Party. She was proud to have the privilege of meeting Governor Jimmy Carter during his campaign for the U.S. Presidency.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Lee and Gladys Mershon; a brother, Frank Mershon; a sister, Louise (Mershon) Moore; a nephew, Michael Mershon Moore; and life-long friend, Myra Crawford.
Survivors include 3 nieces, Linda Thompson and Gary of Walters, Margaret Ann Kinder and Jimmy of Walters, and Marcia Moore of Edmond; several loving great nieces and nephews; other relatives and many friends.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Walters Cemetery Association, P.O. Box 485, Walters, OK 73572.
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