Martha Jane Godfrey Robert, age 83, of Rushville, Illinois and formerly of Mt. Sterling, Illinois and Little Rock, Arkansas passed away at 3:20 p.m. Thursday, October 30, 2025 at the Rushville Nursing and Rehabilitation Center. She was born September 17, 1942 in Little Rock, Arkansas the daughter of William David and Vera Theresa Murdock Godfrey.

Jane grew up in Little Rock, Arkansas, where she attended local schools and graduated from Naville High School. Her love of language led her to earn a Bachelor's degree in English from Louisiana Tech and a Master's degree in English from Louisiana State University. She went on to teach English at schools in Orange, Texas, Lamar University in Beaumont, and Louisiana State University in Baton Rouge, sharing her joy of reading with her students.

Quiet and observant by nature, Jane had a rare ability to make others feel seen and understood. She was funny, creative, and thoughtful, the kind of person whose humor would sneak up on you, delivered with a wry smile and perfect timing. As a mom, she was loving and kind, always finding ways to make everyday moments special.

Jane's curiosity filled her life with books, brushes, and color. She loved mysteries and biographies, but her favorite book of all time was Little Women, a story that reflected her own sense of compassion, courage, and quiet strength. When she wasn't reading, she was painting delicate watercolors, practicing calligraphy, or diving into one of her many creative hobbies. She found beauty in simple things and shared that beauty freely. Her involvement in her community reflected that same generosity. Whether leading a Cub Scout troop, volunteering with the PTA, or joining the Art League, Jane gave her time with the same enthusiasm she gave to her family.

At the heart of everything she did was her belief in being kind and encouraging, with honesty and humor. That spirit guided her every day. Jane's laughter, wisdom, and gentle heart will be deeply missed, but her light, like her art, continues to brighten the lives she touched.

Survivors include two sons, John E. Robert of Bethel Park, Pennsylvania and Dr. Marshall B. Robert of Ft. Worth, TX. One brother William (Margie) Godfrey of Little Rock,. Arkansas also survives along with nine grandchildren, four great grandchildren, three nieces, and one nephew.

She was preceded in death by her parents.

Graveside services will be held at 11:00AM on Friday, November 7th in the Memorial Park Cemetery in Tulsa, Oklahoma.

Memorials are suggested to the Rushville Nursing and Rehabilitation Center Activity Department and may be left at or mailed to the Hendricker Funeral Home, 406 South Capitol Avenue, Mt. Sterling, Illinois 62353.

Local arrengements are being handled by Moore Funeral Home - Southlawn Chapel, Condolences for the family may be left on line at www.moorefuneral.com