Jane M Freed

November 27, 1929 - May 3, 2013

Jane M. Freed, 83, of Oceanport, NJ, died May 3rd at the Barnabas Hospice and Palliative Care Center, at Monmouth Medical Center, Long Branch. Ms. Freed was a philanthropist and professional horsewoman, owning a stable of 22 horses which she bred and raced, producing a stakes winner from her own stock. Born in Washington, DC, she was a graduate of the Sidwell Friends School where she was named to the All-Washington Field Hockey Team. She attended Wellesley College for two years until her marriage and the birth of her children. She began to work in the field of community service while raising her children. She soon became president of The Settlement House, a recreational center for underprivileged children in the Washington, D.C. area. At the organization, Ms. Freed dedicated herself to arranging activities and events, as well as providing emotional support to needy youth. She was also an active volunteer for both the Girl Scouts of America and the Red Cross. She moved to Elberon, New Jersey in 1971 where she resumed her academic studies. A summa cum laude graduate of Monmouth University, Ms. Freed became a driving force behind the creation of the Honors Program, now the Honors School at Monmouth. Along with founding professor, Dr. William Mitchell, Ms. Freed saw the need for a special honors program that would foster the intellectual abilities of Monmouth students. She provided generous financial support to the program for more than 25 years, establishing five Jane Freed Grants for Creativity in Honors Thesis Proposal, and numerous academic and athletic scholarships. A former member of the Monmouth University Board of Visitors and the 2002 recipient of its Distinguished Alumni Award, she was also instrumental in endowing the Freed Foundation Professorship in Social Sciences. She served on the Educational and Faculty Affairs Committee of the Trustees for several years and was a supporter of the annual Scholarship Ball at Monmouth University. Ms. Freed was also a strong supporter of the women's Field Hockey program at Monmouth University, funding the Jane Miller Freed Athlete Scholarships for New Students, and the Jane Miller Freed Athlete Scholarships for Continuing Students, which allowed the Field Hockey team to grow and prosper. She was much admired by students for many years, as an informal 'mom' to members of the Field Hockey team, and as a supporter of the Honors School where she collaborated on reviewing student honors theses for the honors journal, Crossroads, and where she participated in student receptions and events, serving as a mentor and role model. A strong believer in mens sana in corpore sano, a healthy mind in a healthy body, Jane made a generous gift in 2007 to construct a turf field, 'So Sweet a Cat' Field, for the Field Hockey team, named after her stakes-winning filly. Ms. Freed was a volunteer research assistant and editor for years with Dr. Mitchell, working on his books about Peru and the Indians of Peru. Jane also did significant fieldwork at the Vanderbiltâ€™s Great Camp Sagamore, in the Adirondacks, excavating artifacts that illustrate the opulent lifestyle of the Vanderbilt era. She also volunteered her time at Sagamore Museum, a national historic site, where she worked on the restoration of metal work, and also at the Adirondack Museum. In her excavations and restorations she utilized skills that she obtained as a leader at Monmouthâ€™s field school at Turkey Swamp Park in Freehold, site of a Lenni Lenapi Village. She is survived by a daughter, Elizabeth Ann Freed, and three sons, David J. Ourisman, John M. Ourisman, and Robert B. Ourisman, as well as eight grandchildren: Joshua, Jessica, Benjamin, Christopher, Mary Chloe, Juliet, Robert, and Whitney. There will be a Celebration of her life on June 29 at a location still to be determined. In lieu of flowers, gifts may be made to Monmouth University's Honors School or Women's Field Hockey team: Monmouth University, West Long Branch, NJ 07764.

Service:
Saturday, June 29, 2013
The location and time of the celebration of life service will be determined and posted at a later date.

Woolley Boglioli Funeral Home

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Jane was such a generous person hidden behind a cantankerous facade, but those who knew her, knew she had a heart of gold. You are missed.

Hi,my daughter Kimmy (#3, class of 2013) played field hockey all 4 years at Monmouth University. I was able to sit and chat with Jane at the games she attended. She was such a sweet person, so easy to talk to and loved to share stories of her life. She was an amazing lady and extremely generous. Through her generosity she enabled not only my daugher, but so many girls throughout the years to experience a once in a lifetime opportunity. It wasn't just about So Sweet A Cat Field...it was also about being a special part of the girls lives each year from attending the games to the banquets and everything in between. We will truly miss her smiling face and her stories and we will be forever grateful for all that she has given the girls and the parents. Thank you so very, very much. Renee Baligian aka "Kimmy's mom"

I owe so much to Jane Freed. As a freshman at Monmouth in 2002, I was a member of both the field hockey team and the Honors program. I think at that time I was the first to participate in both, and since Jane was a supporter of both, Monica (my coach) introduced us immediately. She was my savior from the get-go and helped me realize that what we are doing as field hockey players is not just girls playing a sport in college. It meant so much more than that, and she made sure we knew how proud she was of each and every one of us. Along with that, she stressed the importance of academics and that balance of being able to do both things. Jane felt like a grandmother to me. Attended every game, talking with me and my family and even my boyfriend afterwards; was there at my banquets and Honors events. There is a particular moment I will never forget. It was senior year. My first year living off campus and paying rent (not an easy thing to do when you're so consumed by your sport and your schoolwork that your only source of income is as a Monmouth tour guide). I was completely stressed out and ready to crumble. Definitely at a breaking point. I had this Honors banquet to attend at Wilson Hall. We had a lot of these types of things, so it was just routine to me. I just knew I had to show up. Once I arrive, I see Monica there. Well, that's really nice that she came, I wasn't expecting that. Then I see my parents. What are they doing here? They only come here for games or to bring me home in the summer. I find out later that Monica called them and asked them to come up and surprise me. She thought it was important for them to be here. I honestly can't remember what Jane was saying up there as she talked about some person who was going to be awarded something. It took me a while to realize she was talking about me (my parents presence somehow didn't tip me off). I wouldn't even remember what it was for if I didn't zoom into the picture above (The Jane Freed Grant for Outstanding Honors Students Achievement). I just remember being so grateful and thinking that when you think you're lost or forgotten, Jane is there to support you. It wasn't until even later after that, I realized that not only was she recognizing me with this honor, she was handing me a check (the word "Grant" somehow didn't tip me off). I may have started hyperventilating. The relief was overwhelming and I will never forget how Jane saved me. Thank you Jane, for everything, you were loved and will be missed by so many.

I will miss seeing Jane in her beloved Raquette Lake environs. After meeting Jane at Great Camp Sagamore more than 15 years ago, while she tirelessly worked on preserving the horse carriages and such, I also got to know her as a neighbor. She delighted in seeing me with my young children and we delighted while seeing her out on her brisk walks. Always with a smile, I enjoyed our talks over the years. Rest in Peace, Jane, we will miss you dearly.

A candle was lit by Elizabeth on 2014/05/13

Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.

Jane Freed, a woman of generosity, strength and unconditional support. The Monmouth University Women's Field Hockey team would not be who they are today without our “So Sweet a Cat Field” – a green square of turf that our team considered to be a second home. In addition to sport, Jane’s passion for academics allowed our small but driven division one program to gain academic recognition at the national level. Jane's giving personality and love for women's sport was evident, but her ability to believe in us will forever be in our hearts. Her smiling face on the sideline was part of our game-time routines and I am confident that her spirit will remain on the sideline in the future. As a Woman’s Field Hockey Alumni I can proudly say that I was a 4-year recipient of the Jane Freed Academic Scholarship Award which was presented to the top GPAs on our team. I have successfully graduated with both an Undergraduate and Graduate degree from Monmouth University and I believe I have Jane to thank for this as she was truly one of my biggest supporters. It was at our end of the season banquet during my senior year that I was forever impacted by Jane – she expressed that discipline and confidence gained through field hockey will truly take me far in life. She highlighted that being a team player and creating relationships with my fellow teammates is one of life’s greatest gifts – and she is right. I will pass on this advice as I begin my career as a School Counselor here in Monmouth County. Jane’s ability to believe in young woman like myself is special, and I believe her presence will remain in many parts of my life as she is at the root of my success. Jane will forever be a member of our Monmouth Field Hockey Family – and we will be forever grateful.

I was not fortunate enough to meet Jane, but from what I have heard and read she was truly a special person. Her generosity and selflessness are admirable traits, but her commitment to Monmouth students was even greater. Her altruism has given so many students opportunities they would have not had without her aid. She is extremely inspiring. I can only hope that I will be able to have an impact (small or big) on people's lives as she did. Rest easy Jane.

Jane was a wonderful person. I met her at our gym and she became part of our group. She was a wonderful excersizer and a great inspiration to me. We would do our excersize and then have coffee and chat. Jane , rest in peace !

Although I had never met Ms. Freed, I have only heard very kind things about her. As a student of the Honors School of Monmouth University, I am so grateful for her contributions and supports. I would like to offer my deepest condolences to her family and friends. Please know that the Monmouth community is thinking of you all at this time.

I have worked with Jane Freed since I started with the Honors Council several years ago. I admired her tremendously as someone who wanted to help our young men and women reach for excellence. I can think of no endeavor that is more noble. I will miss her.

While I never had the pleasure of meeting Ms. Freed, I greatly appreciate her dedication to the Honors School. The Honors School is an important part of my time as a Monmouth student, and I know she is a large reason why it has been so beneficial. I send my condolences to her family and friends. God bless.

I loved being able to converse with Jane at Honors events. I have seen how her generosity has helped students in the Honors School. She will be greatly missed.

Jane Freed has provided a legacy of generosity and kindness to the Monmouth University community. She has touched the lives of so many students. We are grateful, and she will be missed.

During my time at Monmouth I have yet to encounter another person who rivals Jane's dedication and generosity. Jackie Robinson once said, “A life is not important except in the impact it has on other lives.” By that measure, Jane truly lived an important life and I am honored to have known her. ~Gary Lewandowski, Department of Psychology

Ms. Freed will be greatly missed by all members of the Monmouth Honors School community. She was an extremely generous woman and I know that I have her to thank for all of the wonderful opportunities provided by the Honors School.

My experience as an honors student at Monmouth University could not and would not have been the same without the extremely generous donations, time, and involvement that Ms. Freed has put into the program. Truly an amazing individual who so strongly believed in the students that she dedicated so much time to help further develop our growth not only academically, but as both individuals and a community. It is truly sad to see someone with that much heart leave us, but seeing the lasting memories she created and lives she touched everyday is the most beautiful reminder of her we have. Thank you, God bless.

As a senior graduating from the honors school in May, I know that Jane played an important role in our program. Her generosity and grace helped guide our students to achieve their dreams. We are all grateful that she became such an integral part of our community. God bless

I want to thank Jane Freed for all of her generous contributions to the Monmouth University Honors School. Without her, I would not have the college experience that I am lucky enough to have today. She is greatly appreciated and I am sorry for her family's loss.

As a student at Monmouth University, I have been a beneficiary of Ms. Freed's boundless generosity. Thanks to her, many students were given opportunities that they would otherwise not have received, changing their academic careers as well as their professional careers. Ms. Freed gave to the university from her heart. This means so much to us as a community. Ms. Freed will certainly be missed and I wish her family the best.

I met Jane briefly last year when my best friend Courtney Luk was awarded with one of the prestigious Jane Freed awards. She was very sweet and clearly cared about the students. Jane's philanthropy to the Honors School was always well appreciated and she will be sorely missed.

Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.

Jane Freed has always been the number one fan of the Honors School, and through her incredibly kindness and generosity, our students have been able to attend regional conferences, receive recognition for their outstanding theses, and gather together with other students to celebrate their achievements. I couldn't be more grateful for Jane Freed's support and love for this School and it is a true testament to her dedication to education and growth. The world was much kinder, more giving, and sweet with her presence and we will truly miss her.

I am a Monmouth Honors student, and I am truly sorry for you loss; Ms. Freed was such a presence at all of the Honors functions. I know she will be missed.

I didn't have the pleasure of knowing Ms. Freed personally, but I am extremely grateful for all that she has done for the Honors School and the student body in general. Our university won't be the same without her support.

I was lucky enough to have met Jane through the Honors school at Monmouth University. I have never met anyone who was so dedicated to encouraging students to achieve their full potential. The honors school at Monmouth university is truly indebted to Jane's generosity and passion. She will be truly missed by all.

Even though I did not have the pleasure of meeting Jane Freed, I was still directly impacted by her kindness and generosity to the Honors School at Monmouth University. The countless stories that I have heard about her giving nature and amazing personality have inspired me to become a better person and go above and beyond to make the most of my education and help others as well. She will be truly missed. My prayers go out to her and her family during this difficult time.

I would like to thank Jane Freed for her warmth and generosity, which made my college experience in the Honors School so special. The opportunities to bond with others and form good memories of my time in college are some I will continue to treasure in gratitude of Jane Freed's kindness.

I never had the chance to meet Jane, but from what I have heard, the Honors School would not be the same without her. Thank you so much for all of your kindness and generosity in making the Honors School one of the best places to be on campus.

I am very grateful to Jane Freed for her unwavering support of the Honors School at Monmouth University. I had met Jane Freed on numerous occasions when she attended functions at university campus. She continuously supported the Honors School students year after year with her time and generosity. Her support allowed students like myself to be involved in activities beyond just our academic curriculum (culturally engaging trips, undergraduate research, etc). She will be deeply missed by the Monmouth University Honors community.

While I never had the privilege of meeting Jane, the opportunities she enabled were something I will always appreciate. During my freshman year of college, I was residing in the honors dorm, Birch Hall. Through the events that the Honor's School held, I was able to start and cultivate friendships with people. I never forgot to give a figurative "nod" and smile to Jane because I knew that it was due to her generosity and helping hand in these events that I was able to take part in these opportunities.

As an alumnus of Monmouth University, I can imagine my experience at Monmouth University being very different without Jane's generous support over the years; for me, the Honors School was, is, and always will be my home on campus. I had the great privilege of meeting Jane my freshman year; in our first encounter, I knew then how special of a woman that she was. I always looked forward to our Honors BBQ in the fall because I knew it meant that Jane would be there - she always made sure to be there for the BBQ so that she could meet with current student and hear their stories. Above all, I will remember Jane for her smile and her love of Monmouth that she shared with all Honors students. Many lives have been impacted in such a positive way for her. Thank you, Jane, for being such a role model to me. God bless you and your family.

As an alumnus of both the Monmouth University field hockey team and the Honors School, I can truly say that Jane was one of the biggest supporters I had in my college career. She has allowed me to pursue a quality education and a tremendous athletic career. Without her, it would not have been the same. Because of Jane, the field hockey team was able to compete on a new turf field and rise in the rankings of Division I programs. By my senior campaign, we were receiving votes to be in the top 30 teams in the country. This was in large part due to the fact that our new turf field ("So Sweet a Cat Field") allowed us to be competitive and brought competition to our home turf, and in turn, gave relevance to our program-- all because of Jane,who donated generously to our cause. Jane also supported academics, both on the field hockey team and in the honors program. I received scholarships for maintaining a top GPA on the field hockey team, and I also was rewarded for a top honors thesis proposal. Jane helped me more than words can express. She paved the way for me in dealing with the rising cost of a college education, and now I am a young professional starting my career working for the State of New Jersey with little to no college debt. I can start saving for my future at age 24, and that is something that not many can say. All because of 1 woman who believed in empowering women both on the playing field and in the classroom. I saw Jane last summer in the grocery store before my fellow field hockey teammates and I set out for a road trip to Pennsylvania. We chatted with her for over an hour about our dreams, our goals, and how we would get there. Jane was truly invested in the people she helped and was able to inspire us on a random weekend in a grocery store! She truly was an amazing person, and I will be forever grateful for everything she has done-- for me, for my team, for my school, and my future.

My name is Megan Smith and I was a member of Monmouth University's Field Hockey team (2006-2010). I always believed that I posessed the qualities that any female athlete had - motivated, competition, and love of the game. It was not until I met Jane Freed and truly was able to learn the real qualities that a female athlete needs. Jane expressed that qualities in women's sports that usually go unnoticed, first off, passion. The passion she has for all women's sports was unbelievable. She was our biggest fan no matter the obsticle or competition and continuously encouraged us to do our best and more importantly reminded us that what we do (play sports) was so truly amazing. Jane expressed heart as well. Any athlete after college can "retire" their gear and fade into the memories; but Jane was more pronounced after her time on the fields and that's what truly made me realize how much heart she put into women's sports. Her feelings were contagious and I am so proud I was able to catch that as well from her. Jane's dedication to the Monmouth's women's sports was something that many more need to learn about. She never once let an emotion or situation stall her from being a part of a program. She spoke her feelings and made sure others truly understood her ideas and ways. For that those programs have become some of the most powerful in Division 1 sports. Jane's pride in women's sports is unlike anyone's I have ever met. I now am a college field hockey coach and continuously use her lessons and characteristics in my day to day job. I only wish I could be as full of those characteristics as she once was. Playing field hockey at Monmouth was a life changing experience for me. It molded me into the person I am today and has guided my life and career. Jane was a program changing person for Monmouth Field Hockey. She took a struggling program and opened the doors for us to become untouchable...and still continues to grow. Jane provided our program with a brand new turf field "So Sweet a Cat" and because of her generosity I still consider that turf field my other home. I grew up there, I discovered who I am and who I want to be on that field....I hold Jane accountable for that and Thank You merely does not seem like enough. I only hope I am able to be half of what Jane was to the Monmuoth Field Hockey Program at my new employment. I will strive to hold the qualities that she taught and showed off every single time I spoke with her. Our family lost an amazing mentor, an amazing friend. I will never forget Jane. Ever. Megan Smith DeSales University

I had met Ms. Freed at a social function for the Honors School at MU. She was a generous woman who truly loved making a difference in the lives of students. I am proud to be a recipient of the Jane Freed Award for my thesis and I am thankful for the opportunities her generosity and thoughtfulness have allowed me during my time at MU. She will be greatly missed by all Honors School students.

As an Honors student at Monmouth University, I have been the beneficiary of much of Ms. Freed's generosity. I think I can speak for all students when we say we appreciate all that she has done for MU, particularly the Honors School. She will be missed.

As both a field hockey player and a student of the Honors School at Monmouth University, I feel indebted to Jane. She was a very giving woman who will be truly missed. I met Jane at one of the Honors school events, that couldn't have happened without her generosity. She told me about her life experiences playing field hockey and about "So Sweet A Cat." Jane lived an amazing life. She made so many things possible for me and for many other students at Monmouth University. I offer my sincere condolences for every family member and friend of this incredible woman.

I have had the pleasure of knowing Jane for several years. Jane was truly an inspiration. She was a friend, and a caring and giving person. Jane devoted her time and energy in growing the Honors Program to the school it has become today. When someone you love becomes a memory, the memory becomes a treasure. Jane will remain in our hearts forever. I was blessed to have known her.

I cannot imagine my undergraduate experience at Monmouth University without my involvement in the Honors School – a program that could not be where it is today without the support and friendship of Ms. Freed. Because of her generosity, my peers and I have had the opportunity to create unforgettable memories and friendships at Honors School sponsored events. As a direct result of Ms. Freed’s contributions, I have been given opportunities to become a more independently thinking student who actively seeks ways to become involved in my education, research opportunities, and the fine arts. Ms. Freed will continue to be an irreplaceable role model and will be greatly missed.

As an Honors student at Monmouth University and award recipient of the Jane Freed Honors Proposal Award, I am very appreciative of Ms. Freed’s kindness and generosity. I am thankful for everything she has done for the Honors School, she will truly be missed.

It is rare to meet people whose entire lives are based on the act of giving. People who give without concern for themselves or ask for any type of recognition. Jane Freed however, was one such person. Her humility, compassion, and love for the students of the Honors School at Monmouth University were truly remarkable. Without Jane's continuous support, the Honors program would never have had the opportunity to develop into the Honors School. Although she is no longer physically with us, she will always be the heart and soul of everything we do. God Bless you Jane, Kevin Dooley, Dean of the Honors School

As a student in the Honors School at Monmouth University, I've benefitted greatly from the generosity and kindness of Ms. Freed. Her devotion to the social and educational aspects of Monmouth have given me opportunities that have changed my life. It is a sad day for all those whose lives Ms. Freed has touched, but her legacy will forever live on in the Honors School.

Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.

I wanted to take this time to give one more thanks to Jane, she was an amazing women full of spunk and love. She gave to people who needed and things she believed in. Many of the Monmouth field hockey players owe a great deal to Jane. Her support of both on field and off field achievements is unmatched. I loved talking to her about her house in the Adirondack's to the horses she had, to her new restoration project keeping her busy. Jane was a very special women and her legacy will live on in the Monmouth Field Hockey community. We will miss her and our thoughts and prayers are with her family. Love Carli & the Monmouth Field Hockey team

Jane was a dear friend and collaborator on my research, who was vital to the development of the Honors School at Monmouth University. Hundreds of students are grateful to her for her generosity and intellectual support. I miss her greatly.

There are no words to truly express the sorrow that we feel for Jane’s passing. She was a friend, a mentor, and a benefactor to all of us in the Honors School. She will be missed, and she will always hold a special place in my heart and in the hearts of all the MU students who were touched by her kindness and generosity. Rest in peace, Jane.

Jane and I became acquainted shortly after I came to Monmouth in 2004. As an Anthropology student and such a strong supporter of Anthropology and the Honors School, I had many conversations with her about the importance of mentoring students. She has left a strong legacy of excellence and she will be missed.

Please accept our deepest condolences for your family's loss.