Mary Jane Rishel

Mary Jane Rishel, age 78, of Newark, DE, passed away peacefully on Sunday, August 2, 2026, surrounded by her family.

Born and raised in Danville, PA, Jane was the daughter of the late Catherine (Nevius) and Charles Smith. After graduating from Danville High School, she pursued her passion for caregiving, graduating from the Episcopal Hospital School of Nursing in Philadelphia in 1970. That same year, she married the love of her life, Franklin Rishel, and together they made a life in Delaware.

Jane devoted her professional life to nursing, serving patients at Riverside Hospital in Wilmington and within private practice before finding her ultimate calling as a school nurse in the Christina School District. Throughout her career at Douglass School, Bayard Elementary, and Maclary Elementary, she was held in the highest regard by students and colleagues alike. Her commitment to caregiving was recognized when she was honored as School Nurse of the Year, and she generously shared her skills by teaching CPR classes.

Outside of her career, Jane embraced life with vibrant enthusiasm. She loved music, dancing, reading, gardening, decorating, and traveling — especially enjoying trips to the beach and the family’s cherished annual vacation in the Outer Banks. At home, she could often be found relaxing with medical shows and crime dramas, or in the kitchen where she enjoyed cooking and was known for her chicken pie and carrot cake.

In addition to her parents, Jane was preceded in death by her sister, Patricia Barton; her brother Ronald “Butch” Smith; and her cherished brother-in-law, Dennis Yerger.

She is survived by her loving husband of 56 years, Franklin Rishel; her children, Stephanie Rishel and F. Geoffrey Rishel and his wife, Amanda; her grandchildren, Adelyn and Emma Rishel, who lovingly called her “Nanny”; her twin sister, Jill Yerger and many nieces, nephews, extended family, and dear friends. She also leaves behind nieces and a nephew who shared an especially close bond: Kiley and Debbi Moyer and Francis Moyer.

Jane’s caring nature and generous spirit touched countless lives, creating a ripple effect of kindness that reached beyond her immediate circle. Whether caring for a student in her nurse’s office, preparing a homemade meal for those she loved, or sharing her vibrant energy through music and laughter, she had an extraordinary gift for making everyone around her feel valued and cherished. Her compassion was not just something she practiced — it was the foundation of who she was. Though her presence will be profoundly missed, her legacy of warmth, gentle strength, and unconditional love will live on in the hearts of her family, friends, and every life she so selflessly touched.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions may be made to the National Scleroderma Foundation or Faithful Friends Animal Society. A living tribute, flower, or tree may also be planted in her memory.

A celebration of Jane’s life will be held at a later date. Please check back for service details.