Jane May Maher

Jane May Wheeley Maher

Mother, Methodist, musician, media star

Born March 5, 1928 in Baltimore as the only child of Virginia May Bowen and Lucian Albert Wheeley, Jane graduated Western High in February 1946 and then began her career in media at The Baltimore News-Post where she met August Maher, Jr. whom she wed on September 3, 1949.  Augie went on to become Editor of The Jeffersonian and Janie, already known for her work at WMAR-TV, WFBR and WLPL/WSID radio, went on to become Editor of the Ridge Riter and Randallstown’s columnist for The Times. 

While working full time, raising three children born three years apart and being active in the PTA and managing a household which always included one or more dogs, Janie entertained professionally… the sounds of her typewriter keyboard by day turned to music from her organ and piano at night, performing at Snyder’s Willow Grove, Flower Drum, 3900, Chestnut Ridge and other restaurants and country clubs as well as community events.

After circling the Beltway with residences in Rosedale and Westview Park, the Mahers returned to their Catonsville roots… the Colonial Gardens home of Jane’s parents Jean & Al upon their passing.  Yes, Virginia went by “Jean” as in “Jean’s Lamp & Shade Shop” of Frederick Road, so Janie had yet another household AND business to manage. 

With her work as secretary for several area United Methodist Churches and involvement (often leadership) in American Legion, International Sunshine Society, Lioness Club, Poetry Society, Salvation Army and recognition for her toy drive for the Baltimore County Fire Department, Jane’s home is adorned with plaques and her giving back to the community has often been the subject of articles in The Baltimore Sun and The Catonsville Times.

Jane is survived by her daughter Mary Jane and granddaughter Meaghan of California, sons Richard and Daniel of Catonsville, and Godson Philip Veach of Florida.

The family wishes to thank Reverend David Carter-Rimbach and our friends at Trinity United Methodist Church and the staff of Gilchrist Hospice Care for having made our Mom feel loved and respected and kept comfortable during the final years.

In lieu of flowers the family would encourage Janie’s friends to donate to the American Humane Society or ASPCA.

To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of Jane May Maher, please visit our Tree Store.