Dr. Jan Heyn Lynch, 73, of Salem, passed away on Monday, December 28, surrounded by her family. Dr. Lynch began her educational career after obtaining her undergraduate degree from Columbus State University, and Master’s and Ph.D. from the University of Georgia.
After graduation, she began her career at Roanoke College in 1980, and taught Psychology for nearly 35 years. Jan’s outgoing personality is legendary throughout the RC campus. It was often said that Carol Burnette sought out Jan for pointers on being an extrovert, and Lady Gaga approached Jan for advice on fashion accessories.
If you knew Jan, you knew that she loved flamingos, so much so that her 60th birthday surprise to everyone was a flamingo tattoo. Dr. Lynch had a special appreciation for her grandchildren, perhaps because they kept her young at heart. She and her husband, Larry, loved traveling the world. Sailing was their passion on many of their adventures; one of the most memorable of these was sailing around the Greek Islands.
On Monday evening, Jan set “sail again,” this time reuniting with the love of her life, Dr. Larry A. Lynch. In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents, Clarence W., and Lucille Cromarti Heyn; and one brother, Patrick Heyn.
Those left to cherish her memory include her stepdaughter, Kimberly Lynch Cash, and husband, Anthony; grandchildren, Ryan Cash and fiancée, Kaylee, Carly Cash O’Keefe and husband, Patrick, Cullen Cash, and Braden Cash; brothers, Chris Heyn, and wife, Gail, Dennis Heyn and wife, Ann, and Michael Heyn; sister-in-law, Libby Heskett, and husband, Ken; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, friends and her Roanoke College Family.
A celebration of life will be held for Drs. Jan and Larry Lynch when it is safe to do so.
Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.johnmoakey.com.
