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Jean Cleary Obituary
Jean was a successful real estate entrepreneur with a passion for helping others. She was named entrepreneur of the year by Business NH Magazine, guided many first-time buyers through the home buying process and served as a mentor for countless young women in their careers.
A dedicated community activist, Jean served as president of the Chamber of Commerce and was named Londonderry-Derry Chamber of Commerce citizen of the year and chaired many charitable organizations and events throughout her active life in Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Illinois.
In her personal life, Jean spoiled the people she loved and was welcoming to all. She loved to throw fabulous parties - to dance and sing with her husband Paul, siblings and friends. Jean lived fearlessly, chased her dreams and inspired others to do the same. She traveled the globe and cherished good conversation, fine food, art, theatre and music.
She was predeceased by her husbands Paul Cleary (2000) and Paul Needham (1961) as well her niece Kathleen Ryan, brothers Robert and James, sisters Elaine and Dorothy.
She is forever in the hearts of her four children Paul and (Annmarie), Ron and (Pam), Steven, and Susan (Matt), siblings Patricia Costello, Kathryn Ryan and Joseph Richardson and all of her nieces and nephews. Nana Jean will be missed by grandchildren Kathleen, Jessica, Andrew, Jack, Emily, Kaitlin, and Hazel, as well as great grandchildren Izzy and Robbie. She will be greatly missed and fondly remembered by her dear friend Diane Cote and the many cherished friends of her lifetime.
A celebration of life will take place at Nahant Village Church, 27 Cliff St, Nahant, MA 01908 on June 21st at 10:30am. Burial is private.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Jean's name to the following organizations:
Friends of Nahant Library - https://nahantlibrary.org/friends-of-the-library/
Friends of Nahant Council on Aging - https://nahantcouncilonaging.org/donations-support/
4 Entries
Karen A Kelly
June 12, 2025
I am so sorry for your loss. I will always think of Jean as a strong, funny, liberated woman. My mom Dotty was one of her very close friends. Our families grew up together in Derry. Jean was so giving and active in the community. Many years ago she came and spent a weekend with my mom before she passed. She really provided comfort, care and humor to brighten her last days. Jean, thank you and rest in peace. God Bless.
Joe Richardson
June 8, 2025
Jean,
As I sit here writing this, I find it difficult to grasp the reality of losing you. It has left a void in my heart, one that feels even deeper because I wasn't there to hold your hand, to see your smile one last time.
It hurts deeply that I couldn´t be there to say goodbye; it feels as though a piece of my heart went with you. Love you Jean
Pam Fogarty
June 7, 2025
I will always treasure the friendship that Jean and I shared since we first met in 2000. As I knew her as colleague and mentor, she was solid in her leadership. As I knew her as a friend, she was unique. She was ever kind, graceful, with remarkable taste and a great sense of Irish humor (both light and dark). I am missing our weekly calls when discussing and challenging political views - with the historical context she would often provide...I still hear her voice.
Dear Paul, Ron, Steven, Susan and your families,
My heart is reaching out to you in sympathy and prayer.
Pam Fogartu
Feli Sebastian
June 6, 2025
The Labyrinth Outreach Services to Women of Bloomington, IL, a nonprofit organization that provides wraparound services to formerly incarcerated women and I express our heartfelt sympathy for the passing of your mother, Jean. Your mom´s generosity knew no bounds. She immediately sent rolls of beautiful fabric to have our sofa and loveseat reupholstered when she learned that the women had no decent furniture. She also paid for the labor. For many years the attractive loveseat and sofa became a piece of conversation among our guests and friends. Rest in Peace, Jean!
Feli Sebastian
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