Jane Higley Barnard Varley

Jane Higley Varley (née Barnard), 96, passed away on Monday, July 13, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family. 

She was preceded in death by her husband of 70 years, Ken Varley, her sister, Ann Barnard Grekila and beloved nephew, Jon Grekila.

Born on May 11, 1930, in Butler, Pennsylvania, Jane was the daughter of Helen Tebay Barnard and Francis Guy Barnard. 

She grew up in the same home where her father had lived for most of his life, a house filled with generations of Barnards. Her childhood was shared with her younger sister, Frances Ann, as well as her paternal grandfather, Carlton Henry Barnard, and maternal grandmother, Florence Ann Tebay. Jane carried many fond memories of Butler throughout her life.

Jane attended Geneva College and later worked for Callery Chemical, where she met the love of her life, Ken. They began their married life in Decatur, Illinois, where they raised four children — Ann, Ken, Sue, and Judy. Family life brought Jane great joy, especially their travels. Every summer there were visits to family in Pennsylvania and Ohio and vacations throughout the US. Above all, her greatest happiness came from her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren, each of whom she cherished deeply.

In addition to being a devoted wife and mother, Jane was deeply committed to her church and to social justice. She and Ken started their mission work as youth group leaders in Decatur, and they remained involved in local mission work throughout their life together. Most significant were their efforts in the civil rights movement. She served as an Elder in the Presbyterian Church. She was also fundamental in the founding of a teen mother program that supported young mothers in completing high school. She was a lifelong member of the PTA, always present in the school lives of her children.

After moving to West Chester, Jane continued her dedication to community service. At First Presbyterian Church of West Chester Jane served again as an elder and was a leader in the church’s mission work. She volunteered with preschool children, supported the after-school program at the Care Center for Christ, and was a founder of the Safe Harbor Shelter. She also organized tutoring programs that brought parents and children together in learning.

Jane is survived by her children, Ann, Kenneth, Jr., Susan (late James, Sr.), and Judith (Ronald); her three grandchildren, Kristin, James, Jr., and Nicholas; and her great grandchildren, Kali and Kyree. She is also survived by her nephew, Richard Barnard Grekila (Kristy Cowper Grekila).

Jane’s life was defined by compassion, service, faith, and an unwavering love for her family. Her legacy lives on in the communities she strengthened and the generations she nurtured.

A private funeral service will be held at First Presbyterian Church of West Chester. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Safe Harbor of West Chester at https://safeharborofcc.org/ or to the National Parks Foundation at https://give.nationalparks.org/