Elsa Jeannette “Jane” (Slocum) Deland passed away peacefully on July 19, 2026 at age 78 in her most favorite place - her family home in Marion, Massachusetts.

Jane lived a full and vibrant life defined by dedication, faith, and athletic excellence. An extraordinary athlete, she was a New England and National Squash Champion, an achievement that earned her an induction into the Smith College Athletic Hall of Fame. On the water, alongside her late husband, Mike Deland, she raced in and won several Shields National Championships. In her later years, she continued her love for sport on the golf course, constantly trying to improve her putting and often practicing during the off season. Above all, Jane was happiest when competing or spending time outdoors with her friends, children, and grandchildren.

Her professional and philanthropic endeavors reflected her deep commitment to service and faith. Jane served as Chief Development Officer and Special Assistant to the President of Wesley Theological Seminary in Washington, D.C.—a role that was a true calling and passion. She was co-founder of the FDR Memorial Foundation, working tirelessly to preserve the Memorial’s 7.5-acre landscape and expand park service opportunities for people with disabilities. She also served as Trustee of the American Friends of the Episcopal Diocese of Jerusalem and Secretary of the Holy Land Christians Society.

Jane’s daily life was a testament to her steadfast presence, humility, and unwavering faith. Her selflessness was as practical as it was genuine - she famously was committed to wearing the same favorite pair of corduroy pants for 30 years and remained, above all else, a peanut butter and jelly sandwich's biggest fan. A quiet, supportive anchor, who warmly embraced all, her boundless generosity and ever present positivity were on display throughout her seven-year battle with stage 4 colon cancer, which she faced with remarkable grace and a trademark no-nonsense approach.

Jane will be profoundly missed across the country and around the globe. She is survived by her three children: Holly Deland; Melissa Deland and her wife, Julie; and Stan Deland and his partner, Lily. She was the cherished grandmother to four grandchildren: Reeves, Eloise, and Baila (Melissa/Julie), and Orlando (Stan/Lily). She also leaves behind her brother Scott Slocum (Carol); sister-in-law Betsy Slocum; in-laws Frank and Weezie Deland, and Chris and Sue Livesay; as well as nine nieces and nephews and their families. She was predeceased by her beloved husband, Mike.

A memorial service will be held on Friday, August 7, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at Trinity Church in Copley Square, Boston.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Jane’s memory may be made to Trinity Church in Boston or Wesley Theological Seminary in Washington, D.C.