Jane Vavra, a resident of Heritage Green Rehab in Greenhurst, NY, died October 9, 2026. She was 103 years old.

She was born January 1, 1923, in Sandusky, Ohio, the daughter of the late Gertrude and Frank Ritzenthaler.

After graduating from St. Mary's High School in Sandusky, she attended St. John's Nursing School in Cleveland, OH, and received her nursing degree. Jane devoted her life to helping others as a registered nurse in the emergency room. Her love of nursing kept her active until the age of 82.

Jane was a resident of Cleveland for more than 70 years. She was an avid supporter of Cleveland sports teams, an active member of the Playhouse Square Theater Foundation, enjoyed ballroom dancing, playing pinochle, traveling, and visiting her family.

Along with her parents, Jane was preceded in death by her husband, Robert S. Vavra; a sister, Dr. Jeanette Ritzenthaler of Meredith, NH; and her brother, James Ritzenthaler of Sandusky, OH.

Jane is survived by her children, Thomas Vavra of Upland, CA, Anne (Jim) Mathis of Jamestown, and Mark Vavra of Fairview Park, OH; her grandchildren, Julie (Brian) Hall and Brett Mathis, both of Louisville, KY and Ashley (Chad) Beaver of Lakewood, NY; and her great grandchildren, Reece, Braya, Charlotte, Beau, and Emily Beaver of Jamestown.

A special word of thanks goes to the staff at Tanglewood and Heritage Green Rehab for their care over the years of this special lady who devoted her life to helping others.

A mass Intention will be said during the 4 p.m. weekend mass on Saturday, November 28th at Sacred Heart Church. Visitation will not be observed.

Memorials can be made to the Chautauqua Region Community Foundation / Nursing Education in memory of Jane Vavra.