Jane Mae Lacey's Obituary
Reflections of Life…
Jane Mae Lacey (Hart) was born in Manhattan, New York on January 17, 1948, to O’neal Finley and King Williams.
In 1975 at a social gathering in New York, Jane caught the eye of her sweetheart, Douglas Hart, whom she said, “stood tall, handsome, and very charming”, who introduced himself. Since that time, Jane and Douglas became inseparable for 49 years. To their union, they had two children – Reyna Hart and Chelsea Hart Desir.
Jane was a highly educated and successful woman. Obtaining her high school diploma in New York, she continued her education and life-long learning for professional development in California after she and Douglas relocated their family to San Diego, California in March 1978.
While living in New York, Jane was employed by Chemical Bank, Chase Manhattan Bank, and Manufacturers Hanover Trust. Relocating to San Diego, California and knowing very few people, Jane being the very persistent and determined woman she was known to be, carried their oldest child, Reyna, with her from job interview to job interview until she was hired by the State of California Department of Motor Vehicles. Advancing in her career, Jane then worked for the Governor’s Office as a Docketing Specialist. Advancing further, Jane then became employed by the Employment Development Department as a State Auditor until she retired in 2006 after providing 27 years of service.
Jane was very knowledgeable and unselfishly shared her knowledge and research with others. She had a passion to help others and serve her community. She had been on the battlefield a long time defeating her health challenge. During her 29 her valiant battle, she never gave up and never gave in. She was an advocate for others. No matter how she felt, Jane was always willing to help others through research or volunteering her time. She truly enjoyed volunteering at Susan B. Komen events and providing support wherever she was needed. She also supported elections by volunteering at polling sites by collecting ballots and assisting voters. Showing her love for animals, she also volunteered at the Wild Animal Park.
On Sunday, March 19, 2023, God looked upon Jane and whispered, “Be at peace my good and faithful servant. You have fought a good fight and finished your course well.” He then planted a beautiful new rose in His garden. Jane joyfully joins her parents, O’neal Finley and King Williams, and her brother Kenny Williams.
She leaves to cherish and treasure her memories, her beloved husband, Douglas Hart; her daughters, Reyna Hart of Las Vegas, Nevada and Chelsea Hart-Desir and son-in-law Saint Louis Desir of San Diego, California. Her grandchildren, Aaliyah and Amiri; special friends, Janice and Herbert Dickens and Lisa Chambers of San Diego, California; and a host of cousins, other relatives, and close friends who will miss her dearly.
It is evident that Jane will forever be missed, yet never forgotten.
What’s your fondest memory of Jane?
What’s a lesson you learned from Jane?
Share a story where Jane's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Jane you’ll never forget.
How did Jane make you smile?