Chemung, NY - Jana Lee Theisen (Howell,) 81, of Chemung, NY peacefully went to be with the Lord, while her family and priest prayed the Divine Mercy Chaplet, which was very special to her.
She was predeceased by her parents, Leo H. Theisen and Eleanor M. Waggoner-Theisen; her husband, George D. Howell of 59 years; her son, Eric A. Howell; and her foster daughter, Kathy Tilley.
Jana is survived by her daughters, Jennifer Moorehead of Chemung and Kelly Ganci of Cary, NC; grandchildren, Emily Cox of Brussels, Belgium, Hailey Moorehead of Deltona, FL, Gary Moorehead of Lockwood, NY, Sarah Ganci of Seattle, WA, Anna Ganci of Cary, NC, April Tilley of Elmira, NY; and great-grandson, Noah Tilley of Elmira; sisters and brothers-in-law, Carol McPherson of Alton, IL, Mary (Jim) Wicklund of Alton, IL, Michael (Jena) Theisen of Alton, IL, David Theisen of Godfrey, IL and Ann Marie (John) Buatti of Iowa City, IA; along with many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. 
Jana was born in Alton, IL. She attended St. Patrick's Elementary School, Marquette High School, and graduated from Alton Senior High School in 1960. While a student, she was a member of East Alton Golden Angels Drum and Bugle Corps, Alton High School Marching 100, Girl Scouts, and a Candy Striper hospital volunteer. She was employed at St. Joseph's Hospital in Alton as a Cardiovascular Technician. She was also employed at Alton Memorial Hospital. Jana and George moved their family to Ithaca, NY, Madison, Indiana, and back to Alton, for George's career. In 1980, George and Jana purchased Chemite, Inc. in Chemung, NY. Jana was employed at St. Joseph's Hospital in Elmira, Tots Learning Center in Waverly, and provided daycare in her home for many years. Jana was a lifelong member of Beta Sigma Phi International, Daughters of American Revolution, Welcome Wagon, and Red Hats. She volunteered and was active in the Catholic Church community and a member of St. James Altar Rosary Society. She was a host mother to 14 Rotary exchange students and five foster daughters. Jana was a loving wife and was at her husband's side through his years in college, his career moves, and during his terminal illness. She was a loving mother, and "Nana". She loved to give and receive hugs. Jana knew no strangers and could strike up a conversation with anyone and make them feel needed and known. She was always willing to encourage and help others. She kept in touch with several high school friends, and attended many reunions. Jana enjoyed spending time with her family, attending and cheering on children and grandchildren at school and sporting events, family dinners, and spending time at Waneta Lake, and DeBary Florida. On Fridays, Jana and her husband enjoyed movie date nights at Sayre Theater. She traveled often, loved going on cruises, and visited 25 countries and each of the 50 states. Jana will be greatly missed by all – Jesus I trust in you.
A time of calling will be held on Monday, July 15, 2024 from 3 to 5 PM at Blauvelt Funeral Home, 625 Broad Street, Waverly, New York. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Tuesday, July 16, 2024 at 10:00 AM at St. James Church, 503 Clark Street, Waverly, New York with Rev. Jeffrey Gallens officiating and burial to follow in Chemung Cemetery. Memorial donations may be made in Jana's name to Shriners Hospital for Children or The ALS Association. Those wishing to send a message of remembrance to Jana's family may visit our Facebook page or at www.blauveltfuneralhome.com

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Published by The Telegraph on Jul. 10, 2024.