Jane Blackmon left this earthly world on December 23, 2021.  She was born and raised on the Pala Indian Reservation.  Despite her 89 years, she often spoke of her plan to be with her family and friends much longer.  As she would say, "I have a lot more to do."  Her appreciation of the gift of life was driven by her faith, and her unwavering youthful spirit and limitless energy.  She was always ready for a new experience, and when her body gradually became less eager, her spirit took over and she was off on another adventure with a smile and seemingly energy to spare.

Her enjoyment of life took her to the Sherman Indian Boarding School as a young girl, to working in San Diego, San Francisco, Galveston, Texas, Fallbrook, and finally at the Pala Boys & Girls Club, where she was Aunt Jane to nearly all.  She spent most of her career packing avocados in Fallbrook.  She thoroughly enjoyed packing avocados with her friends and coworkers.  She always spoke of the time she spent working in the packing houses with fond memories and happiness in her eyes.

It was in Texas where she met her dear husband, her dancing partner, and her soulmate, Ottis Blackmon.  From the time the met they were inseparable.  He came to California with her and happily moved to Pala, where they raised their daughter, Denise and son, Wade.  Jane and Ottis are now joined once again on the dance floor.

Jane's greatest gifts to those who knew her were her love of family, the tribal community, and her warm, giving heart.  It was a heart that never gave way to anger, frustration or disappointment.   Although she was wise and understanding, she seldom gave advise.  Instead her gift was that all who were fortunate to know her were deeply touched by her kindness and grace that was easy to see through conversation, but mainly by simply being in her presence.   Jane's faith in God was her guide.  While she had hoped to be with us longer, she always put her trust in God above all else, and humbly accepted all that life brings.  She is at peace.

Jane is survived by her daughter Denise, son Wade, and their families, including Denise's husband, Alex; her five grandchildren: Sonia, Alex, Anthony, Kendall, and Taylor; her three great-grandchildren: Remy, Rory, and Micah; and her grandson-in-law, Matthew and his three boys, Ness, Jett and Renn.   Jane is also survived by her brother, Gilbert.

Jane will be laid to rest in Pala on February 5, 2022.