Jane Ellen Roeske

Fillmore – With deep sadness and steadfast faith, the family of Jane Ellen Gregg Roeske, 86, of Fillmore, previously of Caneadea, announces her passing on Tuesday, October 21, 2025, at Olean General Hospital, surrounded by her loving family.

Jane was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, teacher, and friend whose life reflected grace, kindness, and an unwavering trust in God. A member of Houghton Wesleyan Church for more than 50 years, she shared her faith through acts of service, compassion, and hospitality. Her home was always open, her table always full, and her homemade pies became a symbol of the love she offered to all who entered. In her own words, with a big smile she would say, “there’s always room for one more”.

She was born August 16, 1939, in West Sand Lake, NY, the daughter of the late Harvey and Florence Beeker Gregg. On June 27, 1965, she married the love of her life, William A. “Bill” Roeske, at the First Baptist Church of Elma. Together, they built a life centered on faith and family, sharing nearly 50 wonderful years of marriage before Bill’s passing on March 15, 2015.

Jane graduated from Troy High School in 1956, earned her bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from Houghton College in 1960, and her master’s degree from Buffalo State University in 1964. Teaching was not just her profession but her calling. She began her career in the Iroquois School District in Elma, later teaching in Angelica and retiring from Fillmore Central School in 1996 after a long and devoted career that inspired generations of students.

From 1968 to 1978, Jane devoted herself to raising her family, then returned to the classroom to teach 1st through 4th grades. Beyond her work as an educator, she was active in her church, serving as a Sunday school teacher, as Sunday school superintendent, on college ministries committee, on the senior citizens committee and more. She was so grateful to serve her church and community and lived a life marked by gratitude, faith, and joy.

Jane found delight in bird watching, biking, sewing, quilting, knitting, traveling, cooking for her family, friends and college students, and especially spending time with her grandchildren. Her warm welcome, gentle spirit and generous heart made her a blessing to all who knew her.

She is survived by her children, Martha (Shawn) Skeele of DeRuyter, and Peter (Faith) Roeske of Fillmore; six grandchildren: Aubrey (Samuel) Evans, Autumn, Noah (Danielle) Skeele, Adeline, Hannah, and William Roeske; and four great-grandchildren: Galilee Jane, Josiah, Judah Evans, and Damian Skeele. She is also survived by her sisters Virginia Polanski and Barbara Gregg, and nieces Ruth (Paul) Milone and Maryanne Polanski, as well as her sister-in-law Dorothy (Mel) Roeske Dye, and nieces: Brenda (Mark) Dye Mutton and Cheryl (Lou) Dye Holden.

Family and friends may gather from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. and from 7:00 pm to 9:00 p.m. on Thursday, October 30, at Houghton Wesleyan Church where a funeral service will be held on Sunday, November 2, 2025 at 3:00 pm, with Rev. David Huizenga officiating. Burial will take place Monday, November 3, 2025 at 10:00 a.m. at Riverside Cemetery, Belfast.

Jane’s life was a reflection of love, faith, hospitality and kindness. Her legacy continues through the many lives she touched—with her family, her students, and her community—all of whom are better for having known her.

Memorials if desired to: Houghton University Bill Roeske Scholarship Fund, Houghton Wesleyan Church or Gideon’s International.

*** banner art by Hannah Roeske, Jane’s granddaughter***