Jane Curley, 80, of Scarborough, Maine, passed away peacefully after a brief illness on July 27, 2026, at Maine Medical Center.

Born in Portland, Maine, on September 10, 1945, Jane was the youngest child of the late John Martin and Mary Carmel (Sullivan) Curley. She grew up in Portland and spent her summers at her family’s cottage at Higgins Beach, a place she cherished throughout her life. She attended Holy Cross grade school and graduated from St. Joseph’s Academy in 1964 before moving to Connecticut to attend the University of Connecticut, where she earned her bachelor of arts degree in 1968. She also earned her master’s degree in 1977 from Central Connecticut State College.

Jane remained in Connecticut after college, embracing an active social life and forming many treasured friendships. Known for her quick wit, warm humor, and remarkable ability to make others feel valued, she became a beloved presence in every community she joined. She traveled often—visiting Bermuda, Aruba, Ireland, England and Greece, to name a few—sometimes with friends and relatives, and often boldly on her own.

Jane dedicated more than 30 years of her career to civil service, retiring from the State of Connecticut in the Department of Social Services, Disability Determination Services in 2000.

Despite living away from Maine for many years, Jane remained deeply connected to her extended family. Aunt Jane was a world class gift giver-extremely generous and thoughtful during holidays, birthdays, and other special occasions. Her nieces and nephews remember the holidays fondly, as Jane had a way of making everyone feel special and would brighten up the house with her colorful outfits and great sense of humor, not to mention all the delicious baked goods she would bring. As her extended family grew, Jane welcomed in-laws with open arms and delighted in the arrival of each new child. Jane was an avid photographer, traveler, cook and baker, as well as a prolific reader and writer and lover of the coolest music.

In her later years, after facing health challenges, Jane returned to Maine—just a short distance from her beloved Higgins Beach. Even as her health declined, her charm, wit and kindness never faded. She retained vivid memories of time spent with loved ones and could recall moments from decades earlier with astonishing clarity.

Jane's warmth, kindness, and the joy she brought to those around her will be deeply missed but fondly remembered by her large extended family, close friends and special caregivers. She embraced her loved ones with all of her heart, and her passing has created a large void in ours.

A celebration of her life will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, our family encourages acts of kindness in Jane’s memory.