Jayne R. Burghardt

Jayne Ruth Burghardt (Stauffer) was born October 7, 1924 in Cleveland, and died January 28, 2025 in Flossmoor. She is survived by daughters Barbara Burghardt of Glen Ellyn, IL, Ginni Burghardt (John DeSimone) of Homewood, IL, and son Bill Burghardt (Maggie Fredricks) of Glen Ellyn, IL. Grandchildren include granddaughter Jordan Burghardt (Tom Maher) and grandson Zachary Burghardt (Shelby) and two great granddaughters. Jayne was preceded in death by husbands William T. Burghardt (Bill) and James J. Rinella (Jim), sister Joan and brother-in-law Eric Wessman.

Jayne attended Andrew's School for Girls and upon graduation supported the war effort at Union Carbide in a secretarial capacity. She moved on to Corn Products Manufacturing and frequented USO clubs, where she met a handsome army sergeant named Bill. Much to her annoyance, on their first date he obliterated her at ping-pong 22-1, a favorite story. They married in 1946, a marriage that would last more than 50 years. They moved to Park Forest in 1953 where they lived for 44 years and after Bill's death Jayne lived another 10 years.

Bill followed his passion for working with young people pursuing a career as a coach, teacher and administrator at both Rich East and Homewood-Flossmoor high schools. Jayne, along with raising 3 children, was an enthusiastic supporter, attending games, tournaments and being deeply involved in faculty and coaching staff activities. During this time she was also an avid bridge and golf player being in a number of leagues, with bowling in her spare time. She was a committed member of Faith United Protestant Church in Park Forest and contributed to various women's circle activities. Her employment at Landauer Construction, School District 159 in Matteson, Governors State University and Bloom Engineering provided valuable support to the family.

Upon Bill's retirement they became "snowbirds", purchasing a winter home in Venice, FL. There Jayne, along with pursuing bridge and golf, became involved in theatrical productions at their community, and was particularly known for her rendition of "Crazy" by Patsy Cline, a much requested performance.

After Bill's death in 1997 she met and married Jim Rinella in 1999, a widower in their couples golf league. They enjoyed touring National Parks and both enjoyed a second chance at love for over 6 years.

An intelligent, fun loving and entertaining person, she was hard working and also felt deeply. She was a wonderful and loving mother and never left the cookie jar empty. A great friend and a member of the Greatest Generation, she lived to see her 100th birthday.

A private memorial service is planned for spring.