Obituary of Jane Cassady

Erma Jane Cassady passed away on Wednesday August 21, 2019 surrounded by her family in Lehi, Utah.

Born March 13, 1936 in Dodge City, Kansas, Jane was fortunate to be born a twin with her beloved sister, Emma June Lee, and was raised by her adopted parents James and Jewell Olson.  Jane and her family were baptized members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter- day Saints in Mesa, Arizona when she was 15 years old, a membership she cherished her entire life.

Jane was blessed as a mother of five children, a son and four daughters, with her first husband Roy Kent Thompson.  In 1972 she married her beloved husband Ralph Richard “Dick” Cassady, a lifetime resident of Gridley, and became stepmother to his three sons, and were blessed over the years with 22 grandchildren and 28 great grandchildren.

Jane loved life and did not waste a minute of hers.  She enjoyed traveling and all things outdoors, including: camping at Quincy, boating on Bucks Lake, and beach trips at Refugio, Aptos and Hawaii.  She participated in the local women’s softball and bowling leagues and delighted in a well-kept yard.  Jane also loved the State and County Fairs, with her and Dick spending many winters traveling to Fair Conventions in preparation for the much-anticipated Butte County Fair.  

Jane was also a businesswoman and developed many businesses throughout her life including: Diamond Dust, a nail product she developed, a local Basket Shop, Nail Fantasy Salon, and Cassady’s Classic Carriage. She also managed the Prospectors Village Motel in Oroville, and during the filming of the Hollywood movie “The Klansman” she hosted many dinner parties and events for movie stars including Richard Burton and Elizabeth Taylor. 

Jane had a strong desire to help others, serving in the Gridley soup kitchen for many years.  As a member of the Lions Club and Garden club, she made herself available to lend a helping hand to anyone in need. 

Most importantly Jane loved her family and dogs.  Family gatherings were a must and she hosted Thanksgiving, Christmas, Easter, Butte County Fair, birthdays and more.  Jane, you will be deeply missed.

Arrangements entrusted to Gridley-Block Funeral Chapel, 530-846-2138.

Please join us for Erma Jane Cassady’s Funeral,  

Monday September 23, 2019 at 10:00 am

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 

400 Spruce Street Gridley, CA 95948