Jane Marlene Theall Thornell, a beloved matriarch, passed away peacefully on January 18, 2026, at the age of 86, in Port Arthur, Texas. Born on February 1, 1939, to Emery and Odelia Theall, in Abbeville, Louisiana, she lived a life that touched many hearts, characterized by her warm spirit and welcoming nature.
At age 6, Jane moved with her family to Port Arthur. At age 15, she went on a blind date and met Harley Thornell whom she would marry on October 22, 1954.
Jane dedicated a significant part of her professional life as a Manager at Diamond Shamrock, where she was known for greeting every visitor with genuine warmth. Her colleagues and friends admired her for her kindness and dedication, attributes that extended far beyond the workplace.
She was an avid gardener, finding joy in nurturing flowers and tending her garden, a reflection of her nurturing spirit. Jane’s love for her family was profound; she especially cherished the moments spent with her grandchildren, ensuring that everyone she met felt special and valued.
Jane is survived by her devoted daughters, Cathy Saatzer and her husband Terry of Groves, Holly Walls of Denham Springs, Louisiana, Rhonda Landry and her husband Bobby of Port Allen, Louisiana, and son Emery "Beau" Thornell of Dickerson, Texas. Her legacy continues through her grandchildren: Desiree' and Chris Badgett, Duane and Kristen Saatzer, Dana and Jeremie Teran, Dawn and Drake Whitley, D'Anna and Jarren Libersat, Dylan and Abby Saatzer, Lacy Thornell, Josey and Hannah Thornell, Bradley and Tiffany Comeaux, Brandon Comeaux, and Chelsea Landry. She was also a proud great-grandmother to Brady, Laynee, and Marlee Badgett, Jaren, Grayson, and Drew Saatzer, Kendall McBride and Amelia Teran, Gavin Libersat, Graysen and Sonny Saatzer, Jacy Norris, Stephen Jacques, Dakota, Hannah, and Jillian Comeaux, and Brock Blanchard, with her legacy further extended to a great great-grandson, Deegan Weiss.
Jane was preceded in death by her loving husband, Harley Thornell, her daughter Betty Comeaux, her grandson Blake Comeaux, and her parents, Emery and Odelia Theall. She is also survived by her sister, Faye Lee and her husband Charles of Cleveland, Texas.
A visitation to honor Jane's memory will be held on January 28, 2026, from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM at Melancon Levingston Funeral Home in Nederland, Texas, followed by a funeral service from 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM at the same location. A graveside service will be held at Greenlawn Memorial Park in Groves, Texas, following the service.
Jane Marlene Theall Thornell will be remembered for her unwavering love for her family, her generosity of spirit, and her ability to make every individual feel cherished. She leaves behind a legacy of love and compassion that will indefinitely resonate within the hearts of those who knew her.
Melancon Levingston Funeral Home - Nederland
Melancon Levingston Funeral Home - Nederland
Greenlawn Memorial Park
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