Jane L. Sonenshein

Jane Sonenshein, born Jane Lee Spaite on December 17, 1944, died early morning Tuesday, September 3, 2024. She was the daughter of the late Treva (Landis) and Herbert Spaite of Dayton, Ohio. She was preceded in death by her sisters, Ginny Oligee, Barbara Sterling, and Rebecca Hunt, as well as brother-in-law, Richard Sterling.

She is survived by her husband of 57 years, Charles Sonenshein; sons Jason Sonenshein and Joe Sonenshein; daughter-in-law Allyson Pace; brothers-in-law Bob Oligee and John Hunt; as well as her extended family.

Jane dedicated her life to caring for others and public service. She received training as a nurse at the University of Cincinnati. There, Jane met her husband, Chuck. Although Jane remained a registered nurse for many years, she transitioned to full-time motherhood after the birth of her first son. A few years later, Jane became a member of the League of Women Voters. In her 47 years with the League, she spearheaded many voter education and registration initiatives. Additionally, Jane's love and commitment to her children extended beyond her family as she volunteered at Milford Exempted Village Schools. A fierce advocate for children and public education, Jane served on the PTSA, curriculum advisory teams, and campaigns to increase school funding. As her children grew older, Jane eventually became a substitute teacher in Milford's elementary schools.

After she retired from teaching, Jane's son Jason encouraged her to run for election to Ohio's State Board of Education. With Jason as her campaign manager, Jane was elected to the Board. There, she proudly served her constituents and helped shape education policy throughout the state.

In addition to advocating for children, families, and schools, Jane contributed much of her energy, time, and financial resources to numerous campaigns in support of civil rights, social justice, women's health and the environment. For her, being called a "tree-hugger" was a badge of honor. A proud, lifelong Democrat, Jane promoted the virtues of tolerance, compassion, equality, and personal responsibility through her words and deeds.

In her personal life, Jane loved traveling, listening to National Public Radio, and reading the New York Times, among other pastimes. She was a true lifelong learner and joyful student of the world. She plotted countless wonderful family road trips across the country, armed only with her AAA tour books and a road atlas. Later in life, Jane had more opportunities to travel outside of the continental United States.

Above all, Jane loved her family and valued her time with them. In particular, Jane loved gathering with family on Christmas. Every year, in anticipation of the holiday, Jane transformed her home into a warm wonderland, that included her extensive Santa Claus collection. She believed in, and took inspiration from, the giving spirit of Santa for her entire life. She filled the house with her love, the delicious aromas of her cooking, and the sounds of NPR.

Jane often kept her spirituality private. However, she found profound beauty grounded in the natural world. She found awe in trees, the ocean, and human kindness. She valued compassion and believed that she, and others as privileged as she, bear the responsibility of supporting those in need. She lived her life guided by her values and will be forever a part of those she touched.

The family will gather to mourn privately. If you would like to contribute in honor of Jane, please send donations to the League of Women Voters, National Public Radio (NPR), or the Public Broadcasting Service (PBS).