Former longtime CBS anchor Dan Rather is mourning the death of his beloved wife, Jane Rather, who died at the age of 89 on Tuesday.
Jane died “surrounded by her loving family and beautiful works of art” at the couple's home in Austin, Texas, after a battle with cancer, her husband's friends said on his Facebook page.
“Today is the saddest day for Dan and the extended Rather family,” the post read.
Jane, who was married to the journalist, 93, for 67 years, had been “under hospice care for some time”, according to friends.
They added: “The news continues to come as a shock to those of us who knew and loved her.” “She has been in hospice care for some time, but the news still comes as a shock to those of us who knew and loved her.
“Jane lived a full life as an amazing wife, mother, friend, and artist — and a true Texan.”
The obituary noted that Jane was “a highly accomplished artist” and had her artwork displayed “in galleries and private collections” across the country.
Jane Rather grew up in Texas before studying drawing and painting at American University in Washington, D.C. and Marymount Manhattan College in New York City.
“Through careful study of the paintings and sculptures of major artists in museums in England, France, Italy, Russia, Israel, Greece, Turkey and Southeast Asia, Gene created a unique contemporary philosophy and style,” the obituary said.
Before her death, Jane was a drawing member of the New York City Commission and Vice-Chairman of the Arts Commission.
“Many of her dear friends were wonderful companions and their love and support meant the world to her,” the post read.
Dan Rather first met Gene when he was working at a radio station in Houston in the late 1950s.
“In my case, it was love at first sight,” Dan told Closer Weekly. “Not only was she very smart, she smoked a lot, and it took me a while to convince her to marry me. I don't think there's any secret to it.”
In 2021, Jane and Dan return to Texas, aged 85 and 90 respectively, 15 years after the anchor's exit from CBS.
The loving tribute added: “Jane was an amazing mother and grandmother, going to every game, cheering every win, bandaging every scraped knee, and serving as a close friend to her entire family.”
Jane is survived by her husband, Dan, as well as their son Danjak, daughter Robin, and their families.
