Jean Marie Farrell

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Elkhart High School East

Jean Farrell Obituary

Jean Marie Farrell, born on March 15, 1957, in Elkhart, Indiana, to the late Thomas and Mary K. Farrell, passed away peacefully on Jan. 24, 2025, in Clearwater, Florida. She was 67. Known affectionately as "Jean-Jean the Dancin' Machine," she brought joy and laughter to all who knew her.

A devoted registered nurse, Jean dedicated her life to serving others, working in every type of nursing unit and leaving a lasting impact on her patients and their families. Her extensive knowledge and compassionate care were a blessing, especially to her patients.

Family gatherings were at the heart of Jean's life, where she passionately cooked lasagna and cheeseballs, often creating artistic presentations that delighted everyone. She cherished her time spent in the woods of Cape Cod and Manistee National Forest, making lasting memories with her daughters, Autumn and Amy, including joyful kitchen dances to Al Green.

Jean is survived by her daughters, Autumn Marie McGrath (Charles Aaron "Wood" Shook) of Boulder City, Nevada, and Amy Elizabeth McGrath of Clearwater, Florida. She is also remembered by her siblings, the late Kathy Jo (David) Marriot, Denise Kline, Joseph (Patti) Farrell, and Edward (Eilleen) Farrell, along with their children and grandchildren.

In her life, Jean embraced the mottos, "Look on the bright side, and there is always a bright side," and "Be happy not because everything is good, but because you see the good in everything." which reflected her outgoing and funny personality. Her absence will be deeply felt, and in honor of her wishes, there will be no service. Instead, her family will gather for a weekend getaway to celebrate her life and the love she shared.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Elkhart Truth on Jan. 28, 2025.

Memories and Condolences
for Jean Farrell

14 Entries

Colleen

August 9, 2025

I met Jean through a Meet-up group. We lost touch but some of the others in that group came for supper last week. Jean´s name came up and one of the girls said she was going to try and contact Jean. We were all heartbroken to learn that we´ve lost her; Jean was a bright, kind, energetic and hilarious woman and wonderful friend. Our condolences and saddened hearts are with her family.

Amy McGrath

February 25, 2025

Brenda Cleary

February 1, 2025

I got to know Jean when she became Nathaniel´s nurse several years ago. Nathaniel is my great-nephew and I had no experience on how to take care of a child with Leukodystrophy. Between Alicia (Nathaniel´s grandma) and Jean, I learned how to help Nathaniel, even to this day . She and I would buddy up at night so grandma Alicia and grandpa Mike could have a night out. Jean would tell Alicia not to hurry home. She and I would spend hours talking and teaching me how to read Nathaniel and not to be afraid. I loved hearing her talk to him and make him laugh. She would say "give me my baby because it´s time to eat." She was determined to put weight on him and she did! We became friends because of a little boy. I will miss her - we, the family already do, especially Nathaniel. She had a gift. She loved to help and take care of others. She was a servant. Oh - and I don´t know how Alicia got that picture of Jean with Nathaniel and his parents, Alex and Haden, because she would NEVER let me take her picture with Nathaniel. She would say "not me, just the baby" :). Rest well Jean. Your job on earth is done. May you hear the words "Well done good and faithful servant".

Cynthia Priest

February 1, 2025

I echo the sentiments that Jean was a kind and compassionate person. I remember one time, she rearranged her patient's room just so that they could look out the window (no small task in a hospital). I remember the hospital staff didn't like it but I thought I was extraordinary! She was a highly intelligent and skilled registered nurse.

She had a wonderful well developed sense of humor. She was an encourager and seem to reaffirm the best qualities in people.

I offer condolences to her family and friends but especially to Autumn and Amy. I know that her greatest love and concern was for both her daughters.

Vicki

January 30, 2025

Jean was my colleague, confidante, and friend. I will miss her terribly.

vtach

January 30, 2025

Jean was my best friend. She was one of the best & smartest nurses I had the pleasure of working with. We had so much fun together working & playing. I miss my friend.

Julia Galbreth Newvine

January 29, 2025

Jean was an amazing, sweet & kind person! We went all through grade school at St. Vincent & we were good friends!
Prayers for her family for healing!
R.I.P my friend.

Anita Rembert

January 29, 2025

I am so sorry to hear of Jean's passing she was such a kind and loving classmate.

Pat Orlandi

January 28, 2025

I went to grade school and Jr. High with Jean and she was a wonderful friend. She always had a smile on her face, and she did her utmost to help a shy, awkward girl (me) feel good about herself. May she rest in God´s arms. She will certainly make him laugh!

Linda Anderson

January 28, 2025

Jean and i worked together at Elkhart General Hospital and RiverPointe. She was outgoing hard working and loved to have fun. Always an interesting and inquisitive person. Dance On Jean!

Alicia DeVries

January 28, 2025

Jean came into our lives as a nurse to help with our grandson, but left as a dear friend and honorary family member. She brought such love and light into our home. She was an extraordinary human being and will be remembered with great love!