Jane O'Hern passed away on September 27, 2024 after a 4 year battle with cancer.

Jane was born in 1956 in Syracuse, New York to Eugene and Eldine O'Hern, née Donk. She graduated from Corcoran High School in 1973 and went on to obtain a bachelor's degree in French language and literature (magna cum laude) in 1976 from William Smith College in Geneva, NY. Jane then moved to Massachusetts where she received her MBA in management from Brandeis University in 1983. Subsequently, she worked for the Massachusetts Department of Revenue where she became the Chief of the Bureau of Analysis, Estimation, and Research in 1987. She went on to work as the Budget Director for the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority in 1989 and subsequently as the Controller for the law firm Hill & Barlow in 1992. From then on, she spent the rest of her career as an accomplished independent financial consultant with her own certified woman-owned business for notable clients in healthcare, education, law, transportation, and business development, including Cetrulo & Capone LLP, Partners Healthcare, the MBTA, Mass DOT, and A Better City. She also volunteered at the Newburyport Public Library as a financial consultant.

Jane's children from her marriage to Bernard Crowley Jr., Meagan and Sarah, brought her much joy. She enjoyed traveling around the world with her family and friends. She relished visiting many countries in Europe, including multiple trips to France where she spent time in her favorite city, Paris. She found much pleasure in gardening, reading, and learning foreign languages, including French, German, and Russian. Jane loved music, especially R&B and funk, and loved receiving mix CDs and playlists from her children. She enjoyed her home in Newburyport, living near the sea, shopping, and lobster dinners.

In 2009, Jane was diagnosed with breast cancer which she overcame with tremendous strength. In 2020, she was diagnosed with endometrial cancer. She bravely fought for four years. Throughout her treatment, Jane remained grateful for the care and guidance of Dr. Shea, Dr. Lantsman, Dr. Garrett and her oncology team at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center. Her condition worsened in September of 2024, yet she sustained her fierce spirit and determined work ethic until she passed.

Jane is survived by her children, Meagan Crowley and Sarah Lipsky, her son-in-law Eric Lipsky, her sister, Cathleen Scott, her nephew, Christopher Scott, her two granddaughters, grand niece and nephew, and her dear friends. Jane will be fondly remembered as wicked smart, beautiful, funny, and tenacious.

A celebration of life for Jane will be held at Burke & Blackington funeral home in Newton, MA on October 10 from 2-4 pm. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to a charity of your choice

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A Better City Initiative Inc.
14 Beacon Street Suite 402
Boston, MA 02108
www.abettercity.org