Jean Rentfro

Jean Fay Rentfro, age 71, of Jefferson City, Mo., passed away Thursday, December 19, 2024, at her home surrounded by the love of her family.
She was born on October 28, 1953, in California, Mo., to John Emerson and Emma Louise (Sharples) Wood. Jean was united in marriage to Jerry Don Rentfro on July 1, 1972, in Eldon, Mo. They shared 10 years together before his passing on May 7, 1983.
Jean was a lifelong resident of the Central Missouri area, graduating from Eldon High School in 1972. She went on to pursue her education at the University of Missouri, earning a Bachelor of Science in Social Work in 1986.
With her degree in hand, Jean dedicated herself to helping others, working as a social worker for the Missouri Department of Mental Health. She devoted 25 years to the field before retiring in 2018.
Faith was a cornerstone in Jean's life. She was a devoted member of Our Savior's Lutheran Church. Jean had a love for travel, always eager to explore new places. One of her favorite destinations was Sin City- Las Vegas, where she found joy not in the gambling, but in the dazzling lights and the Coca-Cola Store, which became a favorite stop. Jean was an avid collector, and each visit added a special piece to her collection.
Jean also loved being in the kitchen, a place where her love language truly shone. She delighted in sharing her delicious cooking with others, and many neighborhood children fondly remember her homemade biscuits and gravy. Family was everything to Jean, especially after becoming a widow at a young age. She and her daughter Kristina made countless memories together, but Jean's most cherished moments were spent with her grandson, Eli, with whom she shared a special bond.
Though Jean was quiet and reserved, she had a deep, caring nature. She was affectionately known as "Grandma" to all the neighborhood kids and their children; but to Eli, she was "Grammy." While she may not have been involved in the shenanigans around her, she was always watching, enjoying the moments in her own way. Jean will be deeply missed by all who knew her.
Survivors include her loving daughter, Kristina Rentfro of Jefferson City; special "son", Adam Walker (Wendy) of Jefferson City; six grandchildren, Eli Rentfro, Katlyn Dang, Jayden Walker, Cierra Jaco, Deaken Walker and Gauge Walker; two sisters, Jan Parker (Jim) and Marcia Wood all of Prairie Village, Ks.; and her best friend, Janice Wasinger of Moberly. She also leaves behind numerous nieces, nephews and a host of friends.
Jean was preceded in death by her husband, Jerry; her parents; her brother, Roger Wood; and matriarch of the family, Marie Wood.
Visitation will be held from 4:00 pm until 5:00 pm, Friday, December 27, 2024, at Freeman Mortuary.
Jean's Celebration of Life service will be conducted at 5:00 pm, Friday, December 27, 2024, in the Freeman Chapel, with the Reverend Joel Pike officiating.
A webcast of the funeral service will begin at 5:00 pm, Friday, December 27, 2024, for friends that are not able to attend by going to her memorial page on Freeman Mortuary's website.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are suggested to the Eli Rentfro Educational Fund and can be left at the funeral home.
Funeral arrangements are under the care of Freeman Mortuary, 915 Madison St, Jefferson City, MO 65101.