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BORN
1964
DIED
2024
Jean Comer Obituary
January 4, 1964 - November 10, 2024
Jean Hansen Comer passed at the age of 60, surrounded by her children and loved ones, after a brief and courageous encounter with cancer. Jean was the beloved wife of the late Thomas J. Comer, Jr.; devoted mother of Aileen Sterr (Nicholas), Joe, Mary Kate, Tommy, and Sarah Jean Comer; proud grandmother to Cameron Sterr and the late Noah Sterr. Loving daughter of Betty (nee Calonder) and the late Thomas H. Hansen; cherished sister of Thomas V. Hansen, Daniel Hansen (Leslie), Mary Rhind (Thomas), Lynn Vear (Robert), Nancy Resing (John), and Lisa Hansen. Dear daughter-in-law of Eileen (nee O'Connor) and the late Thomas J. Comer, Sr.; dear sister-in-law of Anne O'Neill (Michael), Melissa Williams (Edward), and Catherine Helm (Theo). Also survived by many nieces and nephews, countless beloved friends, and honorary Comer children. Born and raised in the Chicago area, Jean moved to Buffalo, New York after marrying Tom, where together for 30 years they raised their five children. A talented educator, Jean spent her life leading classrooms and schools in her work, service and philanthropy. Her impact on students, teachers, and school communities can be felt in Buffalo and across the country. Jean's zest for life, deep faith and love of family will forever be remembered. She encouraged and inspired those around her to always ask more from life. A Mass of Resurrection and funeral services will be held on Saturday, December 14, 2024 at 1:00 p.m. at St. Francis Xavier Church in La Grange, Illinois. A visitation will be held at the church between 12:00 p.m. and 1:00 p.m.
The Comer family also wishes to gather the Buffalo community for a Memorial Mass on Saturday, November 30, 2024 at 1:00 p.m. at St. Joseph's University Church in Buffalo, New York. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to selected charities in her honor: Bison Children's Scholarship Fund (Buffalo, NY), St. Francis Xavier School (La Grange, IL), Young Life Foundation (YoungLives of LaPorte County, MI), YMCA Buffalo Niagara (Buffalo, NY), Triple Negative Breast Cancer Foundation (Norwood, NJ).
Memories and Condolences
for Jean Comer
David Hawkins
May 3, 2025
April 2025: In memory of Jean Comer at the Basilica of the Trinity - Arre, Navarra, Spain.
Teresa and Gene Pilawski
December 3, 2024
From the moment the Pilawski´s met the Comers we were smiling and laughing non stop! Tommy and Patrick went to Notre Dame together, survived Zahm, and experienced an ND trip to Ireland . We loved cheering on the Irish with Comers in the Ireland Bars! Jean was so welcoming to all of us. Such a warm loving presence and beautiful smile! So fun!!! We are blessed to be part of the Comer family. She will me missed emensly!
David Hawkins - Kelowna, Canada
December 2, 2024
I had the joy of walking the Camino de Santiago with Jean for six days in May 2022-a time that left a lasting impression on me. I was deeply inspired by her kindness, strength, faith, and passion for life.
Jean's love for her family, her connection to friends and neighbors, and her dedication to the Buffalo community were remarkable. Both she and her husband Tom made a meaningful impact on everyone around them.
Jean's passion for life was contagious, and her warmth made everyone feel special. She will be missed dearly by all who knew her and those fortunate enough to have crossed paths with her. Rest peacefully, Jean.
Elizabeth M Swetland
November 30, 2024
Jean's bright life will be remembered and celebrated by all those who know and love her. What lifts my heart is faith that she and Tom are reunited in everlasting unity with God's Protecting Grace. Extending my most sincere empathy for her family, children, grandchildren, and friends. May Jean's example lead all to future blessings and happiness.
Elizabeth Swetland
(1st cousin to Tom)
dm
November 25, 2024
Na zdrowie
Sr. Carol Cimino
November 19, 2024
Energetic, innovative dedicated to Catholic education, Jean created the first and best STREAM program in the country.
Janet Ables
November 18, 2024
As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.
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