September 7, 1946 – April 3, 2026
Margaret Jane Tessmer, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and friend — known to nearly everyone simply as Jane — passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by her loving family, on Friday, April 3, 2026. She was 79 years old.
Born on September 7, 1946, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, to Nicholas and Margaret O’Malley, Jane grew up in Woodbury, New Jersey, where she spent her childhood and early years, along with her brothers Jimmy and Bobby. She went on to attend Glassboro State College, studying elementary education — a fitting path for a woman whose greatest gift was nurturing the people around her.
It was at Glassboro that Jane met the love of her life, James Tessmer. From the very first moment, she knew — it was love at first sight. She often spoke of Jim as funny and handsome, and those who knew them understood exactly what she meant. They married on July 10, 1970, less than a year after meeting, celebrating with the friends and family who meant the world to her. Together, they built a beautiful life rooted in faith, family, and enduring devotion.
Together, Jane and Jim raised three children: Margaret “Maggie” Pajak, Kathryn “Jenny” Bellizia, and James “Jimmy” Tessmer Jr. Jane was endlessly proud of her family. Her greatest joy in later years was her role as grandmother — “Ah” — to her five grandchildren: Matthew, Andrew, Logan, Tyler, and her bonus granddaughter Alyssa. She cherished every moment spent with them. Her granddogs — Herman, Hazel, Charlie, Buckey, Pepper, Buster and Vixen — held a special place in her heart as well.
Jane had a gift for creating warmth and connection. Whether sharing stories over a hot cup of tea, planning family adventures, or simply being present, she made the people around her feel truly loved. One of her greatest joys was taking her children to Walt Disney World for the first time — a trip she planned with excitement and care. Her favorite Disney character was Snow White, a reflection of her own gentle spirit and kindness. She and Jim also treasured their trips to Dover Downs, and the whole family shared in the adventure of a lifetime when they traveled to Ireland together, exploring the landscapes and stories tied to Jane’s Irish heritage. She loved the beach, she loved to travel, and she loved every moment spent with the people she held dear.
Jane worked part-time at Dr. Wallis’ Eye Center for a number of years, but her true calling was found at the Deptford Township Public Library, where she served as a library assistant until her retirement. A lifelong reader with a special love for mystery novels, she took great pride in helping others discover the joy of books.
Her door at home was always open, her heart always ready. She was a steadfast source of comfort and generosity to all who knew her, including to her sister-in-law’s Laurie Tessmer, who was like a mother to her and Donna Tessmer, who was the sister she never had (and also shared a middle name – Jane).
That devotion lives on in a very tangible way: her daughters Maggie and Jenny honored their mother by naming their business after her.
Jane’s Tea House, located in Haddon Heights, New Jersey, carries her name proudly. Her son Jimmy and sons-in-law Chris Pajak and Vinny Bellizia are also part of the business, making it a true family endeavor and a lasting reflection of the values Jane spent a lifetime passing on.
Jane is survived by her husband, James Tessmer; her children, Maggie Pajak (Chris), Jenny Bellizia (Vinny), and James Tessmer Jr. (Denise); her grandchildren, Matthew, Andrew, Logan, Tyler, and Alyssa; her granddogs, Hazel, Charlie, Buckey and Vixen; her brother, Bob O’Malley; her cousin Patsy and many beloved relatives and friends. She was preceded in death by her brother, Jim O’Malley; her father, Nicholas O’Malley; and mother, Margaret O’Malley.
Jane’s life was defined by love, curiosity, and devotion to the people she held dear. Her warmth, humor, and gentle presence will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who were lucky enough to know her. She loved her family without condition and without limit — and that love will continue to shape the lives it touched for generations to come.
