Gisela Jayne

September 28, 1938 – May 21, 2025

Gisela Helene Jayne, 86, Carmel, passed away peacefully at home on May 21, 2025, after a fall in her home.

Born in Stuttgart, Germany, on September 28, 1938, daughter of Hermann Adolf Rapp and Julie Wulle Rapp, her early years were spent growing up during WWII where she lost her father at an early age. She completed school and became a medical assistant.

In 1959 at the age of 20, she came by air to the United States to live with her paternal uncle and work at his bakery in Hartland, Wis. She furthered her medical education and worked at a hospital as a medical technician in Milwaukee, Wis. Gisela met her husband of 61 years, Kenneth R. Jayne, on Easter Day at All Saints Episcopal Cathedral, where she was confirmed. Together, they built a life centered on family and faith.

Gisela poured her heart and soul into taking care of her family. She was devoted to raising her two daughters, taking care of her husband, and doting on her animals, including several Cairn Terriers and her cat, Charlotte. Her strength, kindness and caring were felt by all who were around her. She was always busy and enjoyed many creative activities, including gardening, sewing, knitting, cooking excellent meals, and hosting countless celebrations. She created a beautiful and comfortable home displayed with her many collections. Gisela enjoyed vacations throughout the United States and Europe with her husband, children, and grandchildren; a highlight being when the entire family visited Germany to spend time with her extended family. Every day began with prayers and listening to classical music and ended with looking at the night sky. Each evening was highlighted by speaking to her sister Irmgard in Germany which often resulted in her speaking German to Ken, which he didn’t understand!

Gisela is survived by the love of her life, her husband, Kenneth, along with her daughters, Michele (Bill Brave) of Plymouth, Mich., and Caroline (Mark Plummer) of Carmel; and her beloved grandchildren, Marisa Plummer of Grand Junction, Colo., Adrian Plummer of Carmel, Amelia Brave of College Station, Texas, and Lukas Brave of Hillsboro, Ore. She also leaves behind her brother, Walter Junginger (Heidi) of Wüstenrot, Germany; sister, Irmgard Greiner of Stangenbach, Germany, and many cousins, nieces, and nephews.

In addition to her parents, Gisela was preceded in death by her stepfather, Walter Junginger, and her beloved dogs, Kimi, Hans, Klaus, and Benedict.

The family will be holding a private memorial.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Gisela’s name, are welcome to the Humane Society of Indianapolis. The family invites all who knew and loved Gisela to share stories and memories.

Bussell Family Funerals is privileged to assist the family in arrangements.

Condolences: bussellfamilyfunerals.com