Edward S. Jayne III Obituary
In accordance with his wish, cremation will take place and a service to honor and celebrate his life will be held at a later date. Memorial contributions may be given to Kalamazoo Loaves and Fishes.
Mike Jayne, age 91, passed away at Crystal Woods on January 23, 2026, surrounded by loved ones. He was born in Stamford, CT, the son of the late Edward and Katherine (Higgins) Jayne. Mike loved life and lived it to the fullest. He was intellectually curious and had a passion for learning and teaching. His B.A. and M.A. were from U.C. Berkeley and his PhD in English from SUNY Buffalo. He would spend a career teaching and sharing his knowledge with others at several universities and retired from Western Michigan University. He taught abroad in Germany and Brazil and loved traveling to new and exciting places. He also was gregarious, had a wonderful sense of humor and an infectious laugh. He enjoyed collecting books and his home library was impressive. Additionally, he was the author of three books. Mike was a passionate liberal who enjoyed debating current political affairs. He was one of the founders of the Kal Haven Trail and was delighted that it became a reality. He loved the ocean, conversation with a student or friend, or playing with his dog Maggie. His larger-than-life personality filled the room and he brought joy to those close to him. Above all, Mike loved his family and was a dedicated husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather who took great joy in watching his family grow. Mike will be missed and remembered by all who loved him. On February 14, 1960, he married Elaine (Anderson) Jayne, who survives him. They enjoyed sixty-five years together. He is also survived by a son, Michael Jayne; two daughters, Kristin (Doug Frazier) Jayne, Jenny (Pete Ansel) Jayne; grandchildren, Amelia, Marcella, Max, Cassaundra and Cody Jayne, Zoe and Liza Frazier; Dominic and Lucus Ansel; great-grandchildren, David, Max, Joey, Talulah, Carmelina, Charlie, Atli, Quetzali, Vivi; nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends. He was also preceded in passing by a son, Eric Jayne and brothers, Kirke and Pete Jayne.
