Mary Jane Tuttle

Mary Jane (Krzyzek) Tuttle passed peacefully on May 9, 2026, at her home in Champaign, surrounded by her family. Born June 6, 1945, in Mendota, Illinois, to Ruth (Gillan) and Anthony Krzyzek. Preceded in death by her parents, her husband Jack, 4 siblings, several nieces and nephews, many friends, and countless cats.

Mary Jane graduated from Hall High School in 1963, undergraduate degree in Education from the University of Illinois in 1967. Married her first husband, William “Bill” Gingerich, and had 3 children, divorced in 1981. Mary Jane finished her Master of Education from University of Illinois in 1982.

She had a positive and impactful 20-year teaching career at Urbana High School and then Tolono Unity Junior High School. Mary Jane and Jack Tuttle married in 1985 and founded Insight Metaphysical Bookstore in Champaign, and operated it for almost 20 years. After the store moved from brick and mortar to online, Mary Jane went back to Urbana High School as a beloved substitute teacher for another 20 years.

She officially retired in 2022 where she found her passion in joining every club that sparked her interest. She kept busy with meetings, lunches, dinners, homework, and outings. She loved being social and connecting with people. No one was a stranger when they were in Mary Jane’s company.

Mary Jane is survived by her children, David (Kim) Gingerich from Rineyville, KY, Mark (Jennifer) Gingerich from Louisville, KY, Kristina (Bryan) Miller from Champaign, IL, and Chris Tuttle from Urbana, IL. Her truest heart goes with her grandchildren, Gwen, Bonnie, Nick, Will, Rosalie, Julia, and her bonus grandchild, Courtney (Scott) Kristovich. Mary Jane also leaves behind 7 brothers and sisters and many nieces and nephews.

Celebration of Life will be held at Sunset Funeral Home, 710 N. Neil St, Champaign, IL 61820, on June 6, 2026, at 11:00, with a luncheon at 1:30. This would have been Mary Jane’s 81st Birthday. Per family’s request – bright colors, flower prints, and party attire is recommended. In leu of flowers, please consider a donation to the ACLU, CU Schools Foundation’s Promising Educator Scholarship, Twin City Garden Club of Champaign, your local PBS, or your local public library.

Please join Mary Jane’s family in sharing memories, photos, and videos on her tribute wall at www.sunsetfuneralhome.com