The Honorable Jan E. DuBois Obituary | May 10, 2026
Death Announcement
With profound sadness and heartfelt respect, the family of The Honorable Jan E. DuBois announces his peaceful passing on May 10, 2026, at the age of 84. Judge DuBois passed away surrounded by his loving family in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, after a remarkable life dedicated to justice, public service, family, and community.
The Honorable Jan E. DuBois was a deeply respected jurist, mentor, husband, father, grandfather, and friend whose integrity and wisdom left a lasting impact on countless lives throughout his distinguished career and personal life. Known for his fairness, humility, intellect, and compassion, Judge DuBois earned admiration not only within the legal community but also among those fortunate enough to know him personally.
His passing marks the loss of a man whose commitment to justice and public service helped shape the lives of many. Family members, colleagues, former students, and friends mourn this tremendous loss while also celebrating an extraordinary legacy built on honor, dedication, and kindness.
Judge DuBois believed deeply in the principles of fairness, respect, and service to others. Throughout his life, he carried himself with dignity and humility, always treating every individual with compassion and understanding.
Life & Career
Jan Edward DuBois was born on November 3, 1941, in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, to Charles and Helen DuBois. Raised in a family that valued education, integrity, and community responsibility, Jan developed a strong sense of purpose and discipline from an early age.
As a young man, Jan excelled academically and demonstrated a passion for history, law, and civic leadership. He graduated with honors from Franklin & Marshall College before earning his law degree from the University of Pennsylvania Law School.
Following his legal education, Jan began a distinguished career in public service and law. Early in his career, he worked tirelessly as an attorney known for his professionalism, thoughtful legal analysis, and commitment to ethical practice. His intelligence and fairness quickly earned him the respect of colleagues and members of the judiciary.
Jan later rose to prominence through his judicial service, where he became widely recognized for his integrity, wisdom, and balanced approach to the law. Over the years, Judge DuBois presided over numerous important cases, always striving to uphold justice with fairness and compassion.
Colleagues admired his calm demeanor, intellectual depth, and unwavering commitment to the legal profession. Younger attorneys and law students frequently sought his mentorship, and he generously offered guidance and encouragement throughout his career.
Despite his professional accomplishments, Judge DuBois remained humble and deeply devoted to his family. He believed strongly that personal integrity mattered as much as professional success and worked hard to balance public service with his responsibilities at home.
Outside the courtroom, Jan enjoyed reading history, classical music, traveling with family, and spending quiet afternoons gardening or walking through Philadelphia neighborhoods he loved dearly. He appreciated thoughtful conversation and valued time spent with close friends and loved ones.
Judge DuBois also dedicated significant time to charitable and educational organizations. He supported scholarship programs, legal education initiatives, and community outreach efforts aimed at helping underserved populations gain access to justice and opportunity.
In 1968, Jan married Margaret DuBois, beginning a loving marriage built on faith, partnership, mutual respect, and enduring devotion. Together they shared nearly six decades of cherished memories, raising a family grounded in compassion, education, and service to others.
Friends and family remember Jan as a man of quiet wisdom who offered thoughtful advice, encouragement, and kindness to everyone around him. His influence extended far beyond the courtroom and into the hearts of countless people whose lives he touched.
Family Members
The Honorable Jan E. DuBois is survived by his devoted wife, Margaret DuBois; his loving children, Elizabeth Turner and husband Daniel Turner, Michael DuBois and wife Katherine DuBois, and Sarah Collins and husband Jonathan Collins.
He was also a proud grandfather to Emily, Claire, Benjamin, Olivia, Nathan, and Grace, all of whom brought tremendous joy and pride into his life. Jan cherished every opportunity to spend time with his grandchildren, encouraging their education, celebrating their accomplishments, and sharing stories filled with wisdom and humor.
He is additionally survived by his sister, Anne Richardson, along with several nieces, nephews, former colleagues, students, and lifelong friends who will forever cherish his memory.
Judge DuBois was preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Helen DuBois.
To his family, Jan was not only a respected public servant but also a loving husband, devoted father, trusted mentor, and source of constant encouragement and guidance.
Funeral Details
A celebration of life service honoring The Honorable Jan E. DuBois will be held on Friday, May 15, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at First Presbyterian Church in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Family and friends are invited to attend visitation beginning at 9:00 a.m. prior to the service.
A private burial ceremony will follow for immediate family members.
The family kindly requests that memorial donations be made to legal scholarship foundations or educational outreach programs in Judge DuBois’s memory, reflecting his lifelong dedication to justice, education, and mentorship.
Friends, colleagues, members of the legal community, and loved ones are encouraged to attend and celebrate the remarkable life and enduring legacy of The Honorable Jan E. DuBois.
