Nancy Jane Braddock came into this world August 17, 1958; and with her arrival brought more than a little light and sweetness to this world. The third child of Ed and Audrey Braddock, Jane was "miss personality". A constant source of joy, pride and frustration to her mom and dad. Being the youngest has many advantages, one of those being that your older siblings are responsible for everything you do. But Jane's "sweetness" soon won the hearts of even her older brother Eddie, who would actually take her along on dates with his bride to be Ruth. Later when she had mastered the techniques, she did the same with her sister Betty. Just imagine the fun!
Jane's life was to be one of challenges . Her first came at a very young age when she was diagnosed with Juvenile Diabetes or what we now call Type 1. What would be a show stopper for some; Jane refused to allow this terrible disease to define her. As a youngster, she practiced giving herself often painful shots so she could attend sleepovers and camps like other kids. She never let it stop her, never let it slow her down. Courageous and faithful.
Jane attended Cherokee elementary school in Memphis, then Sherwood middle school, and finally Elliston Baptist Academy, always excelling. She participated in cheerleading, was an editor of the schools annual, and missed a top spot in her graduating class simply because someone else took typing instead of algebra.
Like many young people, Jane received money from family and friends as her high school graduation gifts. Unlike many young people in the 70's she choose not to buy a typewriter, (since she could always use her older sister's) but instead to purchase a stereo. That shopping trip led to meeting her stereo salesman / future husband for 39 years, Rick. Luckiest day ever for him, commission and pretty girl at once.
Jane and Rick soon became a pair, and two years later, after promising her parents she would finish college, Jane and Rick wed on a humid May evening in 1978.
Jane kept her promise, graduating early with honors from Memphis State University in December of 1980. Little did she know when graduating, she carried her son Kevin across the stage while accepting her diploma. After a difficult pregnancy which included facial paralysis and daily, trips to her physician, Kevin arrived July of 1981. The paralysis went away soon after. Again, she never complained, never regretted, was courageous and faithful.
Jane's career path took her in an unexpected direction. Graduating in broadcast journalism, she worked at WHBQ-TV then in a pioneering role at WYPL, where she became involved with educational "tele-courses". That work led her to work in distance and online education, with both community colleges and universities. She established herself as a dedicated and experienced advocate for both students and faculty, becoming a go to person for many of her colleagues. While doing all this, and raising a son, with a husband often on the road, she earned a Master's in Education from the University of Memphis.
Jane's next major challenge would be a heart attack at age 41 caused by decades of diabetes. Triple bypass and in years to come multiple stints. Still she never let that define her. Then came the next challenge. A diagnoses of Multiple Sclerosis. But that would not stop her. After a recent MRI, a neurologist who didn't know Jane asked "how long has she been wheelchair bound?" to which our son replied .. "she's still walking" . I'll never forget his stunned face. She remained courageous and faithful.
The events of August 25th started like any other day, but ended in sadness and worry. Jane fought while we prayed and at times attempted to bargain with God for her return. It was not in God's plan, and she was needed. On September 6th 2017 she left us, and a little light and sweetness left this world. But true to God's promise, her replacement had already arrived. In the form of two grandchildren, Brayden and Audrey, who were the light of her life, bundles of light and sweetness, Brayden sharing her initials and Audrey the namesake of Jane's mother. I'll close with this … Audrey IS "miss personality".
Jane was a child of Our Lord Jesus Christ. She was a longtime member of Hope Presbyterian Church, Sunday School Teacher, Small Group Leader, and Deacon. She was past president of the Tennessee Alliance for Continuing Higher Education, past president of American Women In Radio and Television, and most importantly, a loving Mother and Wife. She is survived by her husband of 39 years, Rick, son Kevin, daughter-in-love Melanie, and grandchildren Brayden and Audrey and a wonderful family of cousins, nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her father Ed, mother Audrey, brother Eddie and sister Betty.
ARRANGEMENTS: Visitation and Memorial service will take place on Sunday, September 10, at 1 p.m., at Memphis Funeral Home and Memorial Gardens 3700 N. Germantown Pkwy 38133. Internment will be private.
In lieu of flowers, Memorial contributions may be made to the scholarship fund in Jane's memory. Tennessee Tech University Jane Sipes Memorial Scholarship P.O. Box 1915 Cookeville, TN 38505
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Sponsored by Memphis Funeral Home & Memorial Gardens.
September 24, 2017
Friend
John and Cindy Martin
Rick, we just heard about Jane from Tony. Our deepest sympathy.
September 16, 2017
Jimmie & Rose Anne Sorrels
Rick...Jimmie and I were so sorry to hear about Jane
But, what a beautiful life and testimony to the power of love and determination..but most of all God's divine presence in her life.
If you need something, please let us know.
Peace to you and the family!
September 15, 2017
Sandeford Schaeffer
I'm so sorry to hear of Jane's passing. She and I were friends and colleagues at the U of Memphis and I continued knowing her after she changed to TTU. I'd see her from time to time around Germantown after her MS diagnosis and she seemed in great spirits. However, it had been 6 months of so (perhaps longer) since I last saw her, so I should have been worried. Jane will always hold a spot in my memory as a lovely and gracious person. She will be missed by many.
Sandy Schaeffer
September 13, 2017
Jane was a bright spot in our world and in my world. She was always willing to help me with all the ins and outs of online learning...more importantly she was a caring, funny and loving person. Her smile always made me smile.
Kathy Emery, Nashville,TN
September 13, 2017
Matthew Smith
I had the privilege of working with Jane over the years on various university matters. I always appreciated her kind spirit as well as her expertise and willingness to go the extra mile to help others. I offer my sincerest thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.
September 12, 2017
Carol Helton
Jane was a dedicated educator and a joy to work with through the RODP program. I am so sorry for your loss.
September 11, 2017
Henry Mannle
Jane was an outstanding educator and individual. I began working with her as an online instructor when RODP, now TNe Campus, courses were first offered through TTU and other participating universities. She was always extremely helpful, conscientious and on top of whatever issues and problems arose be they technical or otherwise. And, most noteworthy, she was genuinely a very nice, good person. I will miss her presence.
September 9, 2017
Friend
Lisa Epperson
Rick & family. So sorry for your loss. Jane was my best friend. Love & prayers.
September 9, 2017
Heidi Dugger
That is the most beautiful tribute I've ever read, for one of the most beautiful friends ever.
September 9, 2017
Marcia Rudzik
Dear Rick, Kevin, and Melanie,
I am so sorry that I can't be with you for Jane's memorial service. What a blessing and an inspiration she has been. I will always remember her as a sweet cousin and dedicated wife, mother, and grandmother. I so enjoyed talking to her about trips to Colorado. I felt such a connection knowing we shared some of the same places. I loved meeting you at Pickwick and taking us for a ride on the pontoon boat. It is one of my favorite times with Jane. God bless you all. Love, Marcia and Frank Rudzik
September 8, 2017
Rick Sipes
I am standing on the seashore. A ship, at my side, spreads her white sails to the moving breeze and starts for the blue ocean. She is an object of beauty and strength.
I stand and watch her until, at length, she hangs like a speck of white cloud just where the sea and sky come together.
Someone at my side says, "She is gone."
Gone where? Gone from my sight. That is all.
And, just at the moment when someone says, "She is gone," there are other eyes watching her coming, and other voices ready to take up the glad shout, "Here she comes!"
I miss her.
September 8, 2017
Sarah Jane
Dear Rick and Kevin,
The words that could fill our hearts with love are, we love Jane. She was the first person I met in August of 1976 in Memphis at college. She was my friend. We joined Sigma Kappa together, became sisters and the rest is history. She married her sweetheart and had the perfect son. Her smile could launch a rocket to the moon. She could save a life with her words..she saved mine. I honor her for her dedication and love of friends, family and life. If the world had more people like her, we would be better. My love and heart go to Rick, Kevin Melody and the grandchildren, she will always be with you in spirit and memories. Remember, the grief we feel is the price for the love we have had.
Love always, one heart one way, Sarah Jane
September 8, 2017
Gayla Nix
Rick, I am so very sorry for your loss. Prayers for comfort at this time.
Gayla Timleck Nix and family
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Memphis Funeral Home & Memorial Gardens3700 North Germantown Parkway, Bartlett, TN 38133
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