Jane A. (Smeltzer) Dellinger

Jane A. Dellinger passed away on Monday, March 23, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family. She was born on March 8, 1935, in Tipton, Indiana, to her parents, Ivan and Jessie (Gasho) Smeltzer. She married the love of her life, Garland Dellinger, on August 8, 1954, and together they shared 36 years of marriage and a lifetime of cherished memories.  He preceded her, passing away on June 12, 1991.

Jane was a proud graduate of Jackson Central High School in Arcadia, Indiana. She dedicated many years of her life to caring for others as a nurse’s assistant in the OB department at Tipton Hospital, where her gentle spirit and love for babies made a lasting impression on countless families.  She dedicated more than 20 years doing the work she loved before she retired from Tipton Hospital.

Family was at the center of her world. One of eight siblings, Jane shared a lifelong bond with her brothers and sisters, remaining especially close throughout the years. She cherished time spent with her sisters, whether it was going out to eat, getting their hair and nails done, or simply enjoying one another’s company. Sundays were often reserved for the gathering of all of the siblings where they spent time playing cards, sharing laughter, and making memories that would be treasured for a lifetime.

Jane found joy in life’s simple pleasures. She loved traveling, crocheting, and working on puzzles, and could often be found watching the birds gather at her feeder. A familiar and friendly face at Jim Dandy, she was known and loved by many, always ready for a conversation and a warm smile.

Those left to carry on Jane’s legacy of love are sons, Kurt Dellinger (Ronda), David Dellinger (Teresa Huntley); grandchildren, Joe Dellinger (Martin), Jessica Dellinger, Matthew Dellinger, April Gillam (Adam), Christopher Dellinger (Ashley); great grandchildren, Haily, Kiana, Alexis, Lucas, Gwynneth, Brynnah, Emilynn, Eiley; great-great grandchild, Koen; sisters, Mardelle McBane, Martha Knapp; brother-in-law, Leon Dellinger (Shirley); sister-in-law, Mary Hannah; as well as many nieces, nephews and cousins. 

Jane was welcomed into Heaven by her husband, Garland G. Dellinger; parents, Ivan and Jessie Smeltzer; In-laws, Garland M. and Naomi Dellinger; son, Dennis Dellinger; granddaughter, Michelle Dellinger; sisters, Maxine Bowser, Eileen Wolfe; brothers, Chuck Smeltzer, Ivan "Ike" Smeltzer, Norman Smeltzer; sisters-in-law, Helen Parker, Jean Sanford; brother-in-law, Carl Hannah; and dear friend and companion, Clark Grupe.

A funeral service celebrating Jane’s life will take place on Friday, March 27, 2026, at 1:00 PM at Taylor & Cowan Funeral Home, located at 314 N. Main St. in Tipton, with Pastor Mark Knapp officiating. Visitation for family & friends will be held prior to the service from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM at the funeral home. Burial will take place immediately following the service at Tipton’s Fairview Cemetery. 

Taylor & Cowan Funeral Home is honored to serve the Dellinger family in their time of need. Please feel free to leave an online condolence or share a special memory of Jane with her family on her tribute wall.  

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