Jane Shirley Smith is a name that often surfaces in connection with Ted Turner, the larger-than-life media mogul who built CNN and reshaped the television industry. Yet, reducing Jane’s story to simply being “Ted Turner’s ex-wife” does a great disservice to the depth, resilience, and character of a woman who lived a remarkable life. Her journey took her from a small New England town to the glamorous skies as a flight attendant, into the bustling world of Atlanta society, and eventually to a legacy of philanthropy, education, and community service. Unlike many individuals tied to famous figures, Jane consistently chose privacy and dignity over publicity, but her story is worth telling because it highlights the often-unseen role of partners, mothers, and community leaders who shape lives in quieter but deeply meaningful ways. The life of Jane Shirley Smith was full of resilience, commitment, and values that remain inspiring even today.
Profile Summary: Jane Shirley Smith
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Jane Shirley Smith |
| Birth Date | November 19, 1938 |
| Birthplace | Williamsburg, Massachusetts, USA |
| Parents | Leon Mollison Shumway and Mabel Bartlett Shumway |
| Siblings | Eldest of five children |
| Profession(s) | Flight Attendant, Registered Nurse, Educator, Philanthropist, Businesswoman |
| Famous As | Ex-wife of Ted Turner (married 1965–1987) |
| Children | Three with Ted Turner; stepmother to two from his first marriage |
| Religious Affiliation | Devout Christian, organist at First Baptist Church in Warsaw, NY |
| Later Marriage | Married A. Rex Reinheimer after divorcing Ted Turner |
| Death | October 20, 2023, Warsaw, New York (aged 92) |
Early Life and Family Background
Jane Shirley Smith was born on November 19, 1938, in the quiet town of Williamsburg, Massachusetts, to parents Leon Mollison and Mabel Bartlett Shumway. Growing up as the eldest of five children meant that Jane quickly learned responsibility, leadership, and the importance of caring for others—qualities that would define her life. Her upbringing in a small New England community gave her strong family values, a sense of compassion, and a hard-working ethic that became central to her character. Surrounded by siblings and raised during a period when community bonds were strong, Jane’s childhood was filled with experiences that shaped her into a dependable and empathetic individual. These formative years created the foundation for her later roles as a nurse, wife, mother, and community figure. She carried the lessons of patience, kindness, and integrity into every stage of her life.
Education and Professional Beginnings
Jane Shirley Smith’s academic journey reflected both her intellect and her natural calling for service. After completing her early education, she enrolled at the Burbank Hospital School of Nursing in Fitchburg, Massachusetts, where she graduated in 1951 as a Registered Nurse. At a time when nursing was seen as both demanding and deeply respected, Jane embraced the challenge and began working in healthcare. Nursing gave her discipline, compassion, and problem-solving skills that would prove useful in her personal and professional life. Later, seeking adventure and independence, she worked as a flight attendant during the 1960s, a career that was glamorous but also required poise, responsibility, and adaptability. Her ability to shift between different roles demonstrated her resilience and flexibility. Whether caring for patients in hospitals or ensuring passenger safety in the skies, Jane showed a dedication to service that defined her personality.
Meeting Ted Turner and Their Marriage
Life changed dramatically for Jane Shirley Smith when she crossed paths with Robert Edward “Ted” Turner III, an ambitious businessman with dreams of transforming the media landscape. Their meeting was almost cinematic—a chance encounter at a social gathering that blossomed into a whirlwind romance. On June 2, 1965, just months after the tragic death of Ted’s father, the couple married. For Jane, the marriage meant more than just becoming a wife; it meant stepping into a blended family and adjusting to the challenges of being connected to a man whose ambitions would soon make him a global figure. She became stepmother to Ted’s children from his first marriage and later welcomed three of her own with him. Their life together in Atlanta was full of excitement, social obligations, and the increasing pressures of Turner’s business pursuits. Jane provided the stability, warmth, and emotional support that allowed Ted to chase his dreams while their family life remained grounded.
Family Life and Role as a Mother
Raising a blended family during the height of Ted Turner’s career was no easy task, but Jane Shirley Smith embraced the challenge with grace. With five children under her care, she managed a household that balanced love, discipline, and resilience. The Turner household in Atlanta became a lively place where children’s laughter mixed with the responsibilities of managing a growing family. Jane was not just a mother in name—she was an anchor who provided consistency while her husband was busy expanding his media empire through ventures like Turner Broadcasting and eventually CNN. Despite the public attention that surrounded the family, Jane worked to ensure that her children had as normal an upbringing as possible. Her role as a mother and stepmother highlighted her nurturing side, and she became the quiet backbone of the family’s stability.
The Turner Years: Love, Challenges, and Divorce
Jane’s 22-year marriage to Ted Turner was filled with both love and challenges. During their time together, Ted transformed from a young businessman into one of the most powerful media moguls in the world. Jane stood by him during his rise, providing emotional support while handling the pressures that came with being the spouse of a man often in the headlines. Yet, the demands of Ted’s career, combined with his larger-than-life personality, brought strains to their marriage. The couple eventually divorced in 1987, ending a significant chapter of Jane’s life. Unlike many who might have sought public attention or financial notoriety from such a high-profile divorce, Jane chose dignity. She did not write tell-all books, give interviews, or make public accusations. Her quiet handling of the situation reflected her strength of character and her commitment to maintaining privacy for herself and her children.
Philanthropy and Educational Work
Beyond her family life, Jane Shirley Smith dedicated herself to philanthropic and educational causes. She believed in the power of giving back, especially in the areas of healthcare and education. Over the years, she raised millions of dollars for causes close to her heart, including initiatives aimed at improving healthcare access and expanding educational opportunities for underserved communities. She also began working directly in education, teaching in rural school districts where her innovative methods improved academic performance and inspired students. Jane’s commitment to philanthropy and teaching showed her belief in empowering others through compassion and service. Unlike the flashy philanthropy often associated with celebrities, Jane’s approach was quiet, genuine, and impactful, reflecting her lifelong values of humility and kindness.
Personal Values, Faith, and Community Service
What truly set Jane Shirley Smith apart was her unwavering faith and her deep sense of personal values. A devout Christian, Jane was active in her local church, serving as an organist at the First Baptist Church in Warsaw, New York, for several years. She also performed music at nursing homes, bringing joy to residents with her gift of playing the organ. Her faith was not just a private matter but a guiding principle that influenced her relationships, her charitable efforts, and her outlook on life. Gardening, reading, and music were her passions, but service remained her true calling. For Jane, integrity, empathy, and accountability were not abstract ideals—they were daily practices that shaped how she lived and how she treated others.
Life After Divorce and Second Marriage
After her divorce from Ted Turner, Jane Shirley Smith chose a life of quiet dignity away from the public spotlight. She remarried A. Rex Reinheimer, with whom she shared 27 years of companionship until his passing in 2007. This marriage was marked by stability, shared values, and mutual support, offering Jane a peaceful chapter in contrast to the whirlwind years with Ted Turner. During this time, she focused on family, church, music, and community work. Her decision to avoid the limelight highlighted her preference for authenticity and substance over fame. She showed that one does not need to be in the headlines to make an impact—sometimes the most meaningful contributions are made quietly, through consistent acts of kindness and service.
Later Years and Passing
In her later years, Jane Shirley Smith continued to live in Warsaw, New York, surrounded by family and community. She remained active in her church, continued her love for gardening and music, and cherished time spent with her children, grandchildren, and eventually great-grandchildren. On October 20, 2023, Jane passed away at the age of 92, leaving behind a legacy defined not by wealth or fame, but by compassion, family, and service. Her death was a reminder of the end of an era, but her life story continues to inspire those who value humility, resilience, and integrity.
Legacy and Remembering Jane Shirley Smith
Jane Shirley Smith’s story demonstrates that the lives of those connected to famous figures are often far richer and more layered than the public assumes. She was not merely “Ted Turner’s ex-wife,” but a woman of substance who built her own legacy in education, philanthropy, and community service. Her strength during challenges, her commitment to family, her quiet but powerful charitable work, and her devotion to faith and music all combine to paint the picture of a life well-lived. Remembering Jane Shirley Smith means recognizing the hidden influence of people who support others while creating their own meaningful paths. Her life reminds us that true greatness is not always found in headlines but in the positive impact left on families, students, and communities.
Conclusion
The life of Jane Shirley Smith is an inspiring example of resilience, compassion, and quiet strength. From her early years in Massachusetts to her career as a nurse and flight attendant, from her marriage to Ted Turner to her philanthropic efforts, and finally to her later life of faith and community service, Jane demonstrated what it means to live with purpose and dignity. Her legacy is not only tied to one of America’s most famous businessmen but also stands independently as a testament to her values. Jane Shirley Smith’s story is a reminder that behind every public success, there are often private figures whose contributions shape lives and leave lasting legacies.
FAQs About Jane Shirley Smith
Who was Jane Shirley Smith?
Jane Shirley Smith was a nurse, flight attendant, teacher, philanthropist, and businesswoman. She is best known as the ex-wife of media mogul Ted Turner, but she also lived a full life of service, faith, and community work.
When was Jane Shirley Smith born?
Jane Shirley Smith was born on November 19, 1938, in Williamsburg, Massachusetts, USA. She grew up as the eldest of five children in her family.
How long was Jane Shirley Smith married to Ted Turner?
Jane Shirley Smith married Ted Turner on June 2, 1965, and they stayed together for 22 years before divorcing in 1987.
Did Jane Shirley Smith have children?
Yes, Jane Shirley Smith had three children with Ted Turner and was also a loving stepmother to two children from Ted’s first marriage.
When did Jane Shirley Smith die?
Jane Shirley Smith passed away on October 20, 2023, in Warsaw, New York, at the age of 92.
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