Jean Carroll Obituary
Jean J. Carroll, of Washington, passed away peacefully Saturday, November 8, 2025, in Strabane Woods, where she was surrounded by the love of her family. Born September 25, 1926, in Washington, Jean lived a life characterized by kindness, warmth, and unwavering devotion to her loved ones. From an early age, Jean exhibited a zest for life that would leave a lasting impact on all who knew her. She met her loving late husband, James H. Carroll, in grade school, and together they forged a bond that would last a lifetime. They were married December 20, 1944, embarking on a journey together filled with family, faith, and countless memories. Jean was a proud graduate of Trinity High School, where she formed the foundation of values that would guide her throughout her life. Jean's greatest pride and joy was her family. She dedicated herself to creating a warm and nurturing home, ensuring that her children - Carolyn (Halden) Grimm, Elaine (Edison) Vorhes, Marie (Robert) Ewing, Marjorie (Greg) Olenick, and James H. (Darla) Carroll - felt the love and support they needed to flourish. Her love extended to her grandchildren, Danny (Jill) Vorhes, Pamela (Neal) Thompson, Jamie (Kara) Vorhes, Robby (Heather) Ewing, Jon (Sabrina) Ewing, Michael (Jennifer) Ewing, Michele (Brad) Kruger, David (Joy) Olenick, Brennen Olenick, and Jimmie Carroll, leaving a legacy of affection that will echo through generations. To her 19 great-grandchildren and four great-great- grandchildren, Jean was lovingly known as "Gammy," a name that encapsulated her nurturing spirit and the joy she found in her family. Her passion for life was evident not only in her familial relationships but also in her many interests and hobbies. Jean was an avid gardener, cultivating her own vegetables and sharing them with those she loved. As a talented cake baker and decorator, she crafted birthday cakes for her children, each one a sweet reminder of her devotion and creativity. Her skills extended to sewing, where she lovingly made clothes for her daughters and shared her baking expertise, particularly when it came to pies that would delight anyone lucky enough to taste them. Jean's artistic talents were multifaceted; she was an accomplished oil painter, a beautiful singer, and even taught line dancing and water aerobics, bringing joy and movement to her community in Florida, where she cherished her friendships. Jean's family will fondly remember her stray cat, Pinky, who often curled up beside her during quiet evenings. Her unwavering faith shone brightly in her life as she made it a priority to attend church regularly, instilling the importance of faith within her family. Jean's kind, welcoming nature left everyone feeling valued and important, and she always put her family first. She was a lifelong member of the Washington Alliance Church. Though Jean has joined her beloved husband, James H. Carroll, in eternal rest, her spirit will forever remain alive in the hearts of her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren; her sister, Millie Brownlee; and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, John H. Jackson and Madeline Glaum Jackson; her sisters, Vera Keenan and Gladys Ralston; her brothers, James Jackson and John Jackson; her daughter-in-law, Barb Carroll; and her great-granddaughter, Chloe Ewing. As we remember Jean J. Carroll, let us celebrate a life filled with love, laughter, and countless treasured moments shared with family and friends. Her generous spirit and loving heart have left an indelible mark on all who had the privilege of knowing her. Friends and family will be received from 4 to 8 p.m. Thursday November 13, in the William G. Neal Funeral Homes Ltd., 925 Allison Avenue, Washington, PA 15301, where a funeral service will take place at 10 a.m. Friday, November 14. Burial to follow at Upper Buffalo Cemetery.
Published by Observer-Reporter from Nov. 11 to Nov. 12, 2025.