In Loving Memory of Jane Dunham
June 11, 1938 – April 19, 2025
Born to Walter and Dorthey Bannerman, Jane was the beloved middle child between her siblings Nancy and Walter. She grew up with strong family values, a love for learning, and a compassionate heart that would go on to shape her life’s work.
A proud graduate of Brighton High School, Jane began her collegiate journey at Wooster before transferring to Syracuse University, where she graduated cum laude in 1960. While at Syracuse, she was a dedicated member of Pi Beta Phi and made friendships that lasted a lifetime.
That same summer, she married the love of her life, Thomas Dunham. Together, they shared 51 wonderful years of marriage, building a home filled with love, laughter, and devotion. They raised three children—Roger (Tracy), Kathy (Gary), and Jennifer (David)—and were later blessed with seven grandchildren: Clinton, Jessica, Amanda, Bryan, Nicholas, Mitchell, and Mallory, all of whom were the greatest joys of her life.
Jane began her teaching career at the Pittsford Central School District before taking time off to raise her children. When she returned to the classroom, she went on to teach for 30 years in the Fairport Central School District—15 years at West Avenue and 15 years at Jefferson Avenue. A dedicated and compassionate educator, she impacted thousands of young lives. Former students would often stop her in the community to share their fond memories of her teaching and how much she meant to them
After her retirement from teaching she and Tom spent many years traveling the US and the world. For over a decade, she was an usher at the RPO and became usher of the year in 2017.
Her favorite place on earth was her cherished cottage on Canandaigua Lake, where she found peace and joy in nature. She was an avid bird watcher and gardener, with a deep appreciation for the outdoors. Whether she was walking in the woods, identifying birds, tending to her flowers, or playing cards with friends, she found happiness in life’s simple pleasures.
Above all, Jane was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, friend, and teacher. She touched the lives of everyone she met with her kindness, warmth, and unwavering ability to listen with genuine care. Her legacy lives on through her family, her students, and all who were lucky enough to know her.
She will be deeply missed, forever loved, and fondly remembered.
Calling Hours will be held at Keenan’s Funeral Home (Egypt Location) 7501 Pittsford Palmyra Road in Fairport on May 2 from 4:00–6:00 PM. A Celebration of life will take place at Casa Larga Vineyards on May 3 from 11:30 AM–2:00 PM.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that donations be made to the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra (RPO) or the Parkinson’s Foundation in her memory.
7 responses to “Dunham, Jane B.”
My condolences to the Dunham family.
My wife, Pat, and myself spent many happy times with Tom and Jane especially the many happy times at theFairport high school class of 1951 reunions
My children also enjoyed swimming in their pool on Mosley road in Fairport.
Dave Waddell
I’m so sad to read about Jane’s passing. She was my daughter Colleen’s 4th grade teacher and had such a positive influence on her , both academically and socially. Colleen was tall for her age – and hated that! – and Mrs. Dunham helped her see that being tall was actually great. I will be forever grateful that Colleen was lucky enough to have her as her teacher and mentor.
Jane was a valued teacher at Jefferson Avenue Elementary School. As her administrator, I saw the dedication she had for teaching , her students, and her colleagues. She impacted the lives of many in and outside of the classroom. My condolences go out to her family. I am grateful for her contributions both as an educator and person.
My sympathy to the Dunham Family.
Jane was a delightful lady. We were ushers together at the RPO at the top of aisle 3.
I always enjoyed our times together and did manage to go out to dinner a few times at Aladdin’s. A gracious lady full of wit and charm. She will be missed.
Jane was very good to work with and enjoyable to lunch with at West Ave. I regret being unable to attend the calling hours.
I enjoyed playing bridge with Jane for many years. She was such a caring and fun person, she will be missed.
My sincere condolences to the family
Anne Smith
Jane and I were I grade school together at Indian Landing School in Brighton. Always with a smile on her face, Jane was a friend to all. I know she will be dearly missed.