Obituary of Mary Jane Balkus

THE VILLAGES — Mary Jane Balkus, 72, died Friday, Jan. 21, 2011. Mrs. Balkus was born in Northampton, Pa., and retired to The Villages from Acworth, Ga., in 1997. She was an elementary schoolteacher; floral designer; real estate agent in the Atlanta area; member of North Lake Presbyterian Church, Lady Lake; an avid tennis player; Atlanta Braves fan; and enjoyed golfing regularly on the executive courses, including Ladies' Day. Survivors include her husband, Bob; daughters Mary Ann Kinard, Marietta, Ga., Nancy Oliver, Woodbridge, Va., Karen, Marietta, Ga.; son, Rob, Navarre; and four grandchildren. A memorial service will be held at 3 p.m., with visitation beginning at 2 p.m., Thursday, Jan. 27, at Hiers-Baxley Funeral Services, The Villages. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the American Red Cross, 2848 W. Main Street, Leesburg, FL 34748. Hiers-Baxley Funeral Services of The Villages is in charge of arrangements.