Jeanne Serfling Simonini

Jeanne Serfling Simonini, of Charlotte, North Carolina, passed away peacefully at the age of 100 on January 12, 2026. A woman of extraordinary vitality and joy, Jeanne lived a full century defined by love, laughter, service, and an infectious zest for life. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 65 years, Alfred Simonini, with whom she shared a lifetime of devotion and adventure.

Jeanne was born on October 23, 1925, in Oak Park, Illinois, to Arthur Carl Serfling and Theresa Rietz Serfling. Her childhood was filled with music, movement, friendship, and a deep family love for sports and community—interests that Jeanne embraced wholeheartedly and carried with her throughout her life. An avid athlete from an early age, she participated in nearly every sport available, excelling especially in swimming and dancing. These passions led her to teach dance and serve as a camp counselor during her teenage years, roles that reflected her natural leadership, confidence, and love of working with young people.

Jeanne attended Oak Park River Forest High School and went on to DePauw University in Greencastle, Indiana, where she was an active member of Delta Delta Delta sorority. Her lifelong dedication to Tri Delta was later recognized with the prestigious Diamond Circle Award, honoring more than 75 years of membership. While at DePauw, Jeanne was also a celebrated Navy Ball Queen at Purdue University and recognized as a Sigma Chi fraternity sweetheart.

Jeanne met the love of her life, Al, while ice skating at a suburban Chicago park at the age of 12- a fitting beginning for a romance rooted in joy and shared enthusiasm for life. Al and Jeanne remained friends through school and reconnected after Jeanne graduated from DePauw. A remarkable student and a true social butterfly, Jeanne had an easy way with people and a gift for bringing others together.

After marrying, Jeanne and Al raised their family in Elmhurst, Illinois, where Jeanne became deeply involved in the community. She was a tireless volunteer and leader—serving on numerous boards and committees, leading Brownie troops and Sunday School classes, and participating in PTAs. She was the President and Founder of the Elmhurst, Illinois YMCA Auxiliary, served as a YMCA board member and camp counselor, and was once honored as Homemaker of the Year. Summers were often spent at the family home on Lake Geneva, creating treasured memories across generations. For many winters, the family journeyed west to take part in snow skiing and other winter pursuits.

In 1974, Jeanne and Al moved to the Charlotte area, living in River Hills Plantation, in Lake Wylie, South Carolina, where they spent 20 joyful years immersed in tennis, golf, water sports, and enduring friendships. They also lived in Venice, Florida before returning to the Carolinas to be near family, making their final home in Lake Norman. Jeanne was an accomplished golfer with multiple holes-in-one, a lifelong tennis player, an enthusiastic bridge player, and a devoted Chicago Cubs fan.

Jeanne delighted in entertaining—whether performing in talent shows, hosting gatherings, or simply filling a room with laughter. She played piano, baked generously, and was renowned as a gracious and welcoming hostess.

Above all, Jeanne cherished people. Her friendships were lifelong, her curiosity boundless, and her energy seemingly endless. Even at 100, she remained engaged, interested, and full of sparkle.

Jeanne is survived by her brother, Lloyd Serfling (Betty) of Wheaton, Ill; and her children, Nancy Spencer of Camden, SC, Ann Robinson (Chris) of Nokomis, Fl, Alan Simonini (Libby) of Charlotte, NC, and David Simonini of Charlotte, NC She is also survived by 11 grandchildren: Jennifer Tammaro (John), Kelly Stamey (Robb), Casey Curtis (Tim), Jeff Spencer (Kate), Michael Simonini (Kylie), Stephen Spencer (Mandy), Lauren Richardson (John), Julia Simonini, Nina Simonini, Alan Simonini Jr., and Landon Simonini; and 22 great-grandchildren, all of whom carry forward her legacy of warmth, generosity, and joy.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Davidson United Methodist Church in Davidson, North Carolina at 2:00PM on February 8, 2026. Family will receive friends immediately following the service in the Fellowship Hall.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Davidson United Methodist Church and Hospice of Charlotte.