Jean A. Ireland

IRELAND, JEAN A., (CESARIO) 94 - of Ventnor, on Wednesday, June 18, 2008. Jean went home to God at home, with the loving care of family and Hospice. Born in Chester, PA Jean grew up Atlantic City, attending local schools. During the course of her life she was one of the first female entrepreneurs of the area. Jean owned and operated three women's clothing stores of the same name as well as an antique shop in Ventnor with her late husband Leroy (Cotton) Ireland. Jean was active in her community as a member of The Chariteers, The Longport Republican Club, Founder and President of the Ventnor Senior Travel Club, and a member with her late husband to The Knights of Pythias. Her passion was fashion; always dressed up with great flair. She loved to dress for the annual Easter Parade on the Boardwalk in Atlantic City. She won best bonnet and best dressed many times over the years; most recently in 1998 at the age of 84! Jean also loved to decorate and have pretty objects around her... (She had many). In her younger days in Atlantic City she could be found dancing with her husband to big bands and as a conant in marathons. Jean loved life! Jean was crowned Mrs. Senior America of Atlantic County in 1980 at the age of 66. In addition to her late husband Jean is survived by four children: Dolores (Wicks) Board, Milford, CT, Gloria (F. Tom) McDermott, Henderson, NV, Jean (William) Killian, Absecon, Lee (Regina) Ireland, Egg Harbor Township. Also surviving are four grandchildren: Jeanne (Paul) Fayumi, Kim (Ryan) Ruark, Jacquelyn Killian, and Thomas (Michelle) McDermott; four great-grandchildren: Bryan McKenna, Nicole Ruark, Ian Ruark, and Natalia McDermott. Jean is survived by her brother Ottilio (Kay) Cesario of Pleasantville, and her sister-in-law, Mary Cesario of Atlantic City. She is also survived by her son-in-law Daniel Moriarty of Escondido, CA. Aunt Jean will also be missed by many nieces and nephews. Jean is also survived by her dear "angel" friends and neighbors (You know who you are). She is predeceased by her husband Leroy (Cotton) Ireland, her daughter Marie Moriarty, and her infant son Craig Ireland. Also pre-deceased by her parents Vincent & Marie Cesario and three brothers; Anthony, Joseph, and Vincent (Chippy) Cesario. Jean's celebration of life with funeral mass will be held on Thursday, June 26, 2008 at 11 AM in St. James Catholic Church, Ventnor. The viewing will take place in the church one hour prior to mass. Interment will be private. Funeral arrangements by the George H. Wimberg Funeral Home of Ventnor.