Jane Alkire Hibberd

Jane Alkire Hibberd, 81, of Lexington, Nebraska, passed away Friday, March 16, 2012, at the Lexington Regional Health Center in Lexington. Jane was born on April 19, 1930, in Lexington, Nebraska to Leonard and Helen (Teets) Alkire. She graduated from Lexington High School in 1948 and attended Nebraska Wesleyan. After her children entered public school, she enrolled at Kearney State College and earned a BA followed by a MA in Elementary education (magna cum laude). Jane taught 2nd grade at Bryan Elementary for 24 years influencing the lives and education of hundreds of young people. She was united in marriage to William C. Hibberd on May 12, 1951. This union produced three sons: Charles, Brian and James Hibberd. Jane was a devoted mother to her children and grandchildren, always engaged in their education and activities. She inspired them to become better educated, more productive citizens and valued members of their communities. Jane was actively engaged in the First United Methodist Church in a variety of service roles including United Methodist Women, and ESL classes for new Lexington residents. Jane loved her friends and enjoyed her membership in Chapter GR P.E.O., the Lexington Investors group and strong supporter of the Lexington Community Foundation. She loved to travel and ventured to Eastern Europe, China and Alaska. Survivors include three sons and their families: Chuck and Janel Hibberd of West Lafayette, IN and children Matt of St. Louis and Katie of West Lafayette, IN. Brian Hibberd of Bremerton, WA and children Jenni and Christopher of Minneapolis, MN. Jim and Marcia Hibberd of Longmont, CO and son Ben of Longmont, CO. Jane is also survived by her brother David and June Alkire of Matthews, NC and sisters-in-law Dee and Dale Kugler of Lexington and Rosie Jelden of Greeley, CO. Jane is preceded in death by her husband, William C. Hibberd, brother Leonard Eugene Alkire, and parents, Leonard and Helen (Teets) Alkire. Memorial Celebration of Life Service will be Monday, March 19, 2012 at 11:00 a.m. at the First United Methodist Church in Lexington with Reverend Tess Hufford officiating. Burial will be held prior to the memorial service at Greenwood Cemetery in Lexington. Visitation will be Sunday, March 18, 2012, from 2-4 p.m. at the Reynolds-Love Funeral Home in Lexington. Memorials are suggested to Lexington Community Foundation, First United Methodist Church or the Donor’s Choice. Reynolds-Love Funeral Home in Lexington is in charge of arrangements. Please forward condolences to the family via the funeral website at: reynoldslovefuneralhome.com.