Jean B. Winchell

Let me tell you about my dear friend, Jean B. Winchell. She died on September 17, 2024 and is now, at the age of ninety-six in the loving arms of her family in the kingdom of God.  Jean was born, Jean Ellen Bell on January 25, 1928. She was the only child born to loving parents, George and Mable Bell. Jean was born, raised and lived her entire life in Jackson, Michigan.  

She spent most of those formative years on Third Street with her grandparents living just two doors down. 

Jean met her future husband, John D Winchell while attending the Greenwood Park United Brethren Church. They were married in 1950. In 1952 Jean and John welcomed a son, John W. Winchell. Jean was a devoted mother to John, who was special needs. Jean and husband, John moved into a home across the street from her parents on Third Street in what used to be a parsonage for the First United Methodist Church. Sadly, Jean’s husband, John died suddenly in 1966, leaving Jean alone to care for her son.  

After many years of being rented, the original family home at Third Street family home was later sold to me. This is when I came into the picture. My family and I loved and cared for her family home. Being an only child, Jean’s family were mostly from her husband’s side of the family. Happily, they welcomed her as a cherished addition to their family.  Jean became an “adopted” member of my family. I often referred to her as my “Michigan Mom!” She and son, John would babysit my two sons, and we would share birthdays and holidays together. To this day, my sons lovingly refer to Jean as, ”Grandma Jean.” 

Sadly, son John died suddenly in 2015 while a resident at the John George Home. It’s touching that John’s final days were spent in a caring home that included the names of both John’s father (John) and Grandfather (George)!  

Jean has lived a long, independent life and has always surrounded herself with things that reminded her of her life of friendships and family long-gone.  

Jean and I have had a long history together and had been woven into each other’s lives.  She introduced me to everyone that she met as “This is my son.”  

I’m so happy to say that Jean is now surrounded by her entire family once again.  I’m sure that she will have much to tell them!    

Rest in peace, “Mom!”   Je t’aime! 

Your “Son” 

Graveside service will take place on Thursday, September 26, 2024 at 1:00 at Woodlawn Cemetery on Francis Street. Rev. Julie Nygaard from the First United Methodist Church will be officiating.  In Lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the:  Music Ministry of the First United Methodist Church, 275 West Michigan Avenue, Jackson, Michigan. 

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