A Journey of Love, Faith, and Dedication
Jean Bianco was born on February 6, 1929, in Manhattan, New York. She was the second of six children born to Salvatore and Antoinette Bianco. Raised in the Catholic Church, Jean remained steadfast in her faith throughout her life, until she passed away on March 23, 2025 in Fresno, California.
On September 20, 1947, Jean married Alfonso (Funzy) Bianco, sharing not only a last name but also a deep and enduring love. Their honeymoon was an adventure, traveling cross-country from New York to California, where they settled in Fresno. Initially living with Funzy's parents, the couple soon bought their first home and expanded their family.
Their first child, Anthony, was born shortly after they moved into their new home. Over the next several years, the Bianco family grew rapidly. Roseanne, Sally, Johnny and Jeannie joined the family. By the age of 25, Jean was a mother to five children. But their family continued to grow, welcoming Christine six years later and Stephanie seven years after Christine.
Jean was a devoted and loving mother. Alongside her sister Elizabeth, she organized memorable birthday parties with creative themes. Jean was also an exceptional cook, particularly known for her delicious Italian dishes, which she mastered despite not speaking the language. Her talent extended beyond the kitchen; she taught herself to knit and created beautiful afghans and other treasures, showcasing her remarkable skills. She was also a talented seamstress and artist.
Bridge was another passion of Jean's. She played in several bridge clubs throughout her life and took the game seriously. Her competitive spirit and strategic prowess made her a formidable player. Jean was also deeply involved in her community, dedicating her time to various organizations, including St. Anthony's Church and St. Agnes Hospital. Her generosity and willingness to help others made her a cherished friend and a pillar of support in her community.
Jean had a special fondness for babies and was blessed with a large extended family, including 19 grandchildren and 21 great-grandchildren. Her kindness, sweetness, and loving nature endeared her to all who knew her.
Jean's home was filled with statues of angels, reflecting her belief in their presence and protection. Now, she is an angel in Heaven, watching over her beloved family and friends.
Jean Bianco's life was a testament to love, faith, and dedication. Her legacy lives on through her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, who continue to carry her spirit of kindness and generosity. She will be forever remembered and cherished.
Jean is predeceased by her husband (Funzy), sister (Elizabeth), and brother (Sal). She is survived by her sisters (Marie and Nanette) and brother (Al) as well as her children Anthony Bianco (Linda), Roseanne Bonovich (Jim), Sally Bianco Schneider (Tim), Johnny Bianco (Marie), Jeannie Harley (John), Christine Pimentel (Paul) and Stephanie Bianco. She leaves her 19 Grandchildren Peter, Nicole, Nick, Adam, Funzy, Joey, Vin, Gina, JohnJohn, Johnny Jr., Domenick, Joey, Christina, Kyle, Simon, Luke, Bianca, Blue and Sam. She was GG to Jonas, Marlie, Barrett, Micah, Maria, Jack, Anna, Mia, Siena, Quintin, Tatum, Max, Nolan, Francesca, Theo, John Joseph, Antonia, Santino, Emmett, Goldie and Rory. (A new baby is on the way) She will also be missed by extended family members and friends.
Donations in Jean’s name can be made to St. Anthony Retreat House in Three Rivers, St. Agnes Hospice or Yosemite National Park Conservancy.
A Recitation of the Holy Rosary will be held on Monday, April 14, 2025 at 6:00 pm at Whitehurst Sullivan Burns and Blair Funeral Home, 836 E. Nees Ave., Fresno California, 93720.
A Funeral Mass will be held on Tuesday, April 15, 2025 at 10:00 am at St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church, 5770 N. Maroa Ave., (at W. Bullard Ave.) Fresno California 93704.
Entombment to Follow at St. Peter’s Catholic Cemetery, 264 N Blyth Ave., Fresno, California 93706.
