Elvira Meredith

Jane Yant was born May 13, 1922 in Mills, WY. She was the oldest child of William Leonard and Alice Evelyn (Francis) Yant. She had two brothers Billy Francis and Robert Yant. At the age of five Jane began taking care of her two brothers when their mother began working outside the home due to their fathers failing health. He died the following year. At an early age she gained solace from drawing, painting, and other creative outlets. Jane graduated at age 16 from Natrona County High School in January 1939. Shortly after graduating she moved on her own to Los Angeles, CA. During WWII she worked at Douglas Aircraft helping to build planes for the war effort. She often spoke of how she walked 10 blocks to and from work in high heels and that her co-workers who worked inside the cramped wing sections had played “Munchkins” in the movie The Wizard of Oz. After the war she worked as a switchboard operator for AT&T. On January 12, 1955 Jane married Warren H. Meredith in Las Vegas, NV. They lived in Casper, WY for just over a year before moving to Billings, MT. She stayed at home with her two children until the youngest entered second grade. Jane held various temporary jobs for a few years. She worked in the office at Pepsi Cola Bottling Company from 1968 until 1984. Jane and Warren traveled as much as possible in their retirement. Jane also returned to painting. She took a class with five other women. After the instructor retired they continued their “class” in the home of one of the women. Jane eagerly looked forward to her Wednesday afternoons of painting. In April 2003 Jane was diagnosed with Alzheimers Disease. She put up a long hard fought struggle. She died on May 28, 2011. Her children would like to thank Edgewood Vista in Billings for their daytime care of Jane which allowed her to stay at home almost to the end. Jane was preceded in death by her parents, brothers, and her husband. She is survived by son, Steve of Helena, MT and daughter, Pat of Billings. As well as niece, Vonnie Bachler and nephew, BillYant both of Casper, WY. Memorials: In memory of Jane please visit friends or relatives who may be confined to home or in a nursing home. Whether they “know” you or not, the visit is appreciated none the less. Service: Cremation has taken place and a memorial service will be held at a later time.