Ada "Janey" Jane Silver

Ada Jane “Janey” Silver was born July 30, 1945, in Denver, Colorado to Joy Carter Jackson Silver and Harry Silver. She was the only child of this union. She was loved and cherished by her parents. Janey’s mother passed away when she was only 2 years old. Her father passed away when she was 15 years old. Janey became a ward of the state at this time and was placed with two loving women who chose to care for her during her formative years. They were a major reason that Janie went on to college and graduated from Fort Lewis College in Durango with a degree in music.

Janey became employed in the Mancos School District Re-6, Mancos, Colorado in 1967 post-graduation to teach music and develop the band. During her service she taught music to grades 1-12. She was also the Director of the Junior/Senior High band. The band under her directorship won several awards and accolades through the years. The highlight was the coveted 1A/2A State Championship won by the marching band in 1995, 1996 and 1997 as well as numerous People’s Choice awards.  Janey made it cool to be a band member and was proud to guide her students to these 3 championships. She became a Band Master. Janey was inducted into the CHSAA Hall of Fame in 2023 because of past loving students who wanted her dedication and accomplishments acknowledged and forever forged in our state and school history. She also participated and coached the girls’ volleyball, basketball and track teams during her tenure. She was a lead in the development of the girls’ athletic program at Mancos School and taught all that they could do and be whatever they wanted. She was a strong advocate and confidante for many. Ms. Silver “Janey” may not have built buildings or developed corporations, but she certainly developed many minds who did accomplish these tasks. The students of Ms. Janey Silver will always be grateful to her, she produced champions throughout her career.

Janey met Louise White and the White family while living in Durango, Colorado. Bowling was a favorite sport hers. Janey was a champion bowler, winning numerous trophies and awards over the years. She also enjoyed fly fishing and an occasional visit to casinos. Her life was rich and became richer when the White family “adopted” her as one of their own. She lived with them for most of her adult life, she called Louise her mom and loved them deeply.

Janey passed away at The Valley Inn Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Mancos, Saturday, May 18, 2024, peacefully surrounded by many caregivers who were at one time her students. The love and respect she received from the staff at the facility was special and appreciated by all.

While Janey never had a family of her own, she had many who were her family by choice. She was preceded in death by her parents Harry and Joy Silver. Janey was also a beloved member of the White family, Clint, Louise, William and Robert, who also predeceased her. Surviving family members are Karen Ort of Portlandville, New York, Diann Ort Moseson of Poland Maine, Glenn Ort of Oneonta, New York and Kathryn White of Cortez, Colorado. Janey is also survived by numerous students and friends who loved her and will never forget the role she played in their lives. 

      In lieu of flowers and in memory of Janey Silver please send any monetary contributions to:  Mancos School District 355 West Grand                    Mancos, Colorado 81328, please mark it to be used for the band/music program.

Graveside services will be held at 10:00am May 30, 2024 at Greenmount Cemetery, Durango, Colorado at a.m. Please come and celebrate the life of this amazing, cherished woman.