Mary Jane Clifford, 69, of Columbia City, passed away at 1:27 p.m. on Saturday, July 25, 2026, at Parkview Regional Medical Center in Fort Wayne, Indiana.

Born on August 15, 1956, in Richmond, Indiana, she was a daughter of the late Rev. James A. and Barbara Jane (Davis) Clifford.  Growing up as a minister's daughter, the family moved frequently as the family served new churches.  The family had lived in New Paris, OH, then Wayne, OH, then Enon, OH.  Mary Jane completed grade school in Marion, IN before moving to the Columbia City area, where she graduated from Columbia City Joint High School in 1974. She continued her education, studying nursing in Fort Wayne and earning her license as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN).

Mary Jane had a long and fulfilling career in the medical profession, caring for others. She worked at Alfran Nursing Home before becoming a LPN.  She then worked at Parkview Randallia, Orthopedics Northeast (ONE), Warsaw, and completed her career at Kosciusko Community Hospital (KCH) in medical records and scheduling.

An active member of her father's church, Laud Christian Church, she was a regular at all Church events.  She was passionate about teaching and helping youth learn the word of God and helping them find their path in life.  She taught Sunday School and was on the Jefferson Township Vacation Bible School Board for many years.

Growing up, Mary Jane enjoyed climbing trees and riding her bike to the local park. She loved to participate in family activities, attending school and sports events to support her nephews, great-nephew, and great-niece; whether it was soccer games or musicals, Mary Jane would be there. In her free time, she could be found walking through town or enjoying a good medical mystery book. Mary Jane spent much of her life caring for others, from living with her parents in their elder years to care for them to babysitting for others. She collected Donald Ducks, Flamingos, and Hippos, and loved the color purple.

Surviving are her siblings, Howard (Marla) Clifford, Carolyn (Warren Harrold) Hindbaugh, both of Columbia City, and Daniel (Connie Hawkins) Clifford of South Whitley; nephews, Colin (Kelly) Clifford, Phyneus (Francine) Scott, Clifford Reece Hawkins and Scott Hindbaugh; great-nephew, Howard Clifford, and great-niece, Phoebe Clifford.

Visitation is from 12:00 p.m. (noon) to 2:00 p.m. Friday (July 31st) at Smith & Sons Funeral Home, Columbia City, with a funeral service to follow immediately at 2 p.m.  Burial is beside her parents at the South Park Annex Cemetery, Columbia City.

Memorials in Mary Jane's honor are to Laud Christian Church.