July 22, 1938 – February 13, 2025
Jane Sharp Condon, a visionary educator and passionate advocate for the arts, passed away on February 13, 2025, at age 86. Her career spanned decades, impacting countless lives in the Jacksonville community.
Born in Indianapolis, Jane’s love for education began early. After earning a degree in English and secondary education from the University of North Carolina, she taught in Jacksonville, Maryland, and overseas with the U.S. Department of Defense. Jane’s leadership in education began in 1978 when she became principal at Stonewall Jackson Elementary, and she later played a pivotal role in the founding of LaVilla School of the Arts and Douglas Anderson School of the Arts, two prominent arts schools in Jacksonville.
Jane’s legacy is marked by her commitment to fostering creativity and excellence in her students. As principal, she built schools where artistic talent could thrive and students could find their voices. Many of her former students credit her for shaping their futures and empowering them to pursue their passions.
Beyond her work in education, Jane was a dedicated mentor, community leader, and philanthropist. She co-founded TEDxJacksonville and contributed to numerous cultural organizations in the city. Her memoir, “Chosen by Jane”, chronicles her remarkable journey.
Jane is survived by her family, including seven grandchildren. A celebration of her life will be held in the coming months. In lieu of flowers, the family encourages donations to the Jane Condon Outstanding Educators Fund, which supports teachers who demonstrate dedication and commitment to their craft.
