Mary Jane Baker , age 79 of Alexandria, passed away on Saturday, March 9, 2024 at Elwood Health and Living following an extended illness.  She was born September 12, 1944 in Anderson, the daughter of George William and Hortense (Bronnenberg) Baker.  Mary Jane was a 1962 graduate of Frankton High School, and furthered her education by earning her bachelor's and master's degree from Indiana State University.  She was a teacher for over 30 years, educating the youth in South Madison Community School Corporation at Ingalls, and East Elementaries.  Mary Jane was also a reserve officer for the Madison County Sheriffs Department for 13 years.  She was a faithful member of Shiloh Friends Church.  Mary Jane was a member of Alpha Delta Kappa, Creative Friends Home Extension Club, and Purple Tomatoes Chapter of the Red Hat Society.  She loved to help and give to others throughout her life, and will be remembered for her home baked Christmas cookies, and handmade angel ornaments.  Mary Jane was always ready to go on the next adventure with her friends and family and was very active with helping at the Madison County 4-H.  She loved animals, especially her special cats, and will be dearly missed as the best "free" farm hand.  More than anything, Mary Jane will be remembered as a loving sister, aunt, great-aunt, and friend.

Mary Jane's family includes sister, Barbara (husband Sam) Baker of Alexandria; nephew, Brent E. (wife Janie) Parker of Alexandria; great-nephew, Dustin Parker of Arcadia; feline companions, Heddy, Gracie, and Tipper; and several friends.  Mary Jane was preceded in death by her parents; and grandparents, Clifford and Jane "Bird" Baker, Cora Bronnenberg and James Bronnenberg

A funeral service celebrating Mary Jane's life will be conducted at 11 am on Friday, March 15, 2024 at Copher-Fesler-May Funeral Home in Elwood.  Burial will follow the service at East Maplewood Cemetery in Anderson.  Visitation for family and friends will be held from 3 to 7 pm on Thursday, March 14, 2024 at Copher-Fesler-May Funeral Home.   In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are suggested to the Madison County 4-H Association through the funeral home.  Online condolences and memories may be shared at copherfeslermay.com.