Jane Martin Ries

Jane Martin Ries, former long serving and highly respected Food Critic for the Post & Courier, passed away Sunday, October 10, 2021, having peacefully succumbed after a twenty-year battle with cancer.

Jane was born in the small river town of New Martinsville, West Virginia, to Elizabeth McEldowney Ries and George Martin Ries on May 16, 1944. She is survived by her sister, Elizabeth Gray Chandler; her brother, George Yancy Chandler II; her granddaughter, Fury Lynn Jones; her step-son, Ed Kronsberg as well as her former husband, Leonard Long and numerous wonderful nephews and nieces. She was predeceased by her parents, her son, Robert Tilghman Kronsberg, her former husband, Avram Kronsberg and a step-son, Avram Kronsberg, Jr.

Jane was never restricted by geography or means, traveling the world cooking with and for the best. Still, she found her home in Charleston, surrounded by amazing friends. Jane made a name for herself in the early days of Charleston's emergence as a culinary destination. She was a first in opening cooking classes in her home. Jane's classes had waiting lists--as much for being with Jane as for the food.

During the early days of Spoleto, she was discovered by Gian Carlo Minotti, who made her his personal chef and became a lifelong friend. Jane had remarkable taste and style, surrounding herself with brilliant people, marvelous characters, unique items and art.

Above all else, Jane will be remembered for her love of life, her sense of humor, the friendships she made and never let go of, her resilience in the face of turmoil and the unerring sense of elegance in everything she touched, as well as the impact she made on those around her and on her beloved city's culinary culture. She was irresistible and will be greatly missed.

Jane's family is eternally grateful to Leonor Felix Monroy, Rontese Smalls, Rita Maxwell, Andrea Limehouse, Sandra 'Madam' Clark, Hildur Schmidt and Robert 'Roach' Thelen for their unselfish devotion to Jane.

Due to COVID, a Memorial Service will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers or food, donations to the American Cancer Society, 269 Calhoun St, Charleston, SC 29401, would be appreciated.

Arrangements by JAMES A. MCALISTER, INC, 1620 Savannah Hwy, Charleston, SC 29407 (843) 766-1365