Jane W. Skogley

Jane Walker Skogley of Exeter, aged 98, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, September 25th, surrounded by her family. Jane was born in Rhode Island, but moved to Wheeling, West Virginia when she was 6 years old. In Wheeling she attended both elementary and high school. She then became a student at Brown University’s Pembroke College, where she graduated with a degree in English in 1948. While at Brown, Jane met Richard “Dick” Skogley, who was in the Navy at the time. After a long correspondence while he was in the Pacific, they were married in 1948 and moved back to Rhode Island. Dick was the love of Jane's life and they were married for nearly 50 years. Although grief-stricken, she proved to be very resilient after his death in 1997, remaining in her beloved, peaceful Exeter home until her death.

She received a Masters in Library Science from URI in 1970, after having raised her three children. She became a school librarian for the Exeter-West Greenwich school district in 1965, working there until her retirement in 1989.

Jane was active in many organizations, among them the AAKW (Association of American University Women), the Kingston Free Library, the Kingston Hill Gardeners, the Kingston Book Club, Tennis RI, Friends of Kingston and Exeter Libraries and the URI Foundation. She also volunteered at the Peace Dale House and Metcalf School. She was also very proud to be a member of the board that established the Exeter Public Library. Jane was actively involved in the Kingston Congregational Church from 1948 until her death. The music and worship there were important parts of her life.

Jane was an avid reader and indoor gardener. She also enjoyed playing tennis for many years, only giving it up when in her mid-80s. She was a great listener and conversationalist, and loved to entertain her many friends and acquaintances. She traveled widely, living with her family in both England and Holland for extended periods of time. She had a great sense of humor and was a constant source of support and encouragement. She wasn’t afraid to express her opinion and was also very interested in current events up until the end. She wanted more than anything to vote in the upcoming election.

She is survived by her three children Tom, Beth and David, their spouses Allan Hurst and Angela Kauls, and two grandchildren Helen and Walker. She is predeceased by her sister Sheila Peters.

Jane loved her life, her family and her community. She will be greatly missed.

A memorial service will be held at the Kingston Congregational Church on October 22nd at 1pm, with a reception following. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Exeter Public Library or the Adams Memorial Library in Central Falls.