Jean E. Smith

Born on July 13, 1928, in Ypsilanti, Michigan, Jean was the foster daughter of the late George and Sarah Eddie. She started her education in a one-room schoolhouse in Dixboro. She finished her primary education in Dexter, Michigan, where she attended Dexter High School. It was during this time that she cultivated her love for reading.

After completing her education, Jean attended business school in Ann Arbor, where she honed her administrative skills. She later embarked on a fulfilling career as a medical transcriber for over 20 years at St. Joseph Mercy Hospital in the radiology department. She later became an Administrative Assistant where her dedication and meticulousness were greatly appreciated by everyone who worked with her.

Jean's life was marked by her unwavering love and devotion to her family. She met her husband, Ed, at the Gage Linen Shop in the Nickels Arcade in Ann Arbor. They were married in 1950 at the West Side Methodist Church in Ann Arbor. Together, they raised five children: Carol, Cherie (Jim), Gail, Rusty (Patti), and David. Jean's calm, loving, and positive demeanor left a lasting impression on all who knew her, and her family was the center of her world.

In addition to her professional and familial responsibilities, Jean was an avid fan of Michigan football having attended games in person with Ed for many years and later never missing a game on television. Including this year’s National Championship run. She also enjoyed traveling in her later years, with trips to Europe, Mexico and Canada, along with visiting family throughout the United States. Jean found joy in various hobbies and pastimes. She had a green thumb and delighted in gardening and birdwatching. She loved her time at the Pittsfield Senior Center where she enjoyed playing bingo and flower arranging. Jean’s mind was kept sharp with jigsaw puzzles and crossword puzzles, and she loved her long walks as well as time spent with family playing cards.

Jean's culinary talents were also well-known, and she shared her love through baking, delighting many with her delicious pies. She prepared pies for Strickland Grocery Store during the 1960’s.

Preceded in death by her husband in 2002, Jean found solace in her faith and was a dedicated member of First Congregational Church in Ann Arbor. She is survived by 5 children, 10 grandchildren, 8 great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild. She is also survived by her sister Mary and numerous nieces and nephews.

Jean leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness, and resilience. Though she will be deeply missed, her memory will forever live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.

There is no service planned at this time. The family requests that any donations or acts of kindness be made in Jean's honor to the American Heart Association or the charity of your choice.