Jane Gierhart

Jane Gierhart, a decorated military officer, devoted educator, and cherished friend, passed away peacefully in Denver, Colorado, in 2025 at the age of 92. Her life was a testament to service, scholarship, faith and love.

Born in 1932, Jane graduated from Illinois State University with a degree in teaching and soon after answered a higher calling. In 1955, she joined the U.S. Army Medical Corps as a physical therapist. In 1967, during one of the most turbulent times in American military history, she volunteered for service in Vietnam. Her courage, compassion and professionalism earned her the Bronze Star.

Jane’s commitment to excellence extended beyond the battlefield. She earned her Ph.D. from University of New Mexico and rose to the rank of Colonel, retiring from the military in 1983 after a distinguished career. She then turned her focus to education, becoming a professor of Physical Therapy at The Ohio State University and later at Wheeling Jesuit University in West Virginia, where she mentored and inspired countless students.

In 2003, Jane moved to Taos, New Mexico, where she embraced the natural beauty of the Southwest. She hiked the trails with joy and immersed herself in the study of geology, continuing her lifelong love of learning.

A devout Catholic and member of OLG Guadalupanas, Jane’s faith shaped every chapter of her life. She was a generous and compassionate soul, known for her sharp sense of humor, deep loyalty, and devotion to family and friends. Her presence brought light and strength to those around her, and her legacy will live on in the hearts of many.

Jane Gierhart will be remembered as a woman of courage, conviction and kindness—family centric, faithful and full of life. May she rest in peace. She was preceded. in death by her parents, Helen and John Gierhart, sister Chloeann Simmering, brother John Russell and life partner, Helen Seufert. She is survived by her brother Loren (Adra) of Buda, Texas and sister Mary Passaglia (Martin) of El Prado, New Mexico as well as 16 nieces and nephews and 10 great nieces and nephews.

A vigil rosary will be held Wednesday, June 4 at 6 pm at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church, Funeral mass on Thursday June 5 at 10:00 am with internment to follow at Santa Fe National Cemetery at 2 pm.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Catholic Charites or Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church, Taos.