Jean Hermann, age 62 of Manahawkin, has died. She passed away on April 11, 2023. Born in
Yonkers, NY, Jean graduated from Our Lady of Victory Academy in
Dobbs Ferry, NY in 1978. Initially setting out to pursue a secretarial career, Jean was instead called by her love of the sea, and she spent several enchanting and fulfilling years running a charter sailboat business with her partner. Jean loved the ocean, and was delighted by the sense of peace and freedom it provided her. She travelled around the world, while helping others to do the same. This was in Jean's nature. She was a helper, always wanting the best for others, and giving back to those around her.
When Jean eventually retired from life at sea, she came back to the States and soon met her former husband, James Thumhart. The two married, and Jean became a mother to two sons, Justin and John, who quickly and eternally became the lights of her life. Jean loved her children to no end, and was over the moon when she recently became a grandmother to baby Finn. She was so proud of her sons, talking about them at every opportunity, and always trying her best to support them and share her love with them. Jean loved her entire family immensely. She was a dedicated daughter to her aging father, taking the time to visit with him almost daily, and she was always there to help him whenever he needed her. The two shared a truly special bond. Jean was always the first to reach out and check on her extended family as well, despite distance or time, you knew she was always there, and thinking of you. She was the one who always had a gift for you at the holidays, expecting nothing whatsoever in return.
When Jean wasn't sharing her heart with family, she could be found doing the same for her friends, for strangers, for the less fortunate, and for any lucky animal that crossed her path. Jean had so much love to give this world, and we are heartbroken that her time here has been unexpectedly cut short. She was a bright light that dimmed too soon. Jean once shared the quote, "No matter what happens in life, be good to people. Being good to people is a wonderful legacy to leave behind." And that is exactly what Jean has done. Life was not always kind to her, but there is no doubt that she will always be remembered for how good she was to everyone around her, and she will be forever deeply missed.
Jean is survived by her two sons, Justin and John Thumhart and wife, a grandson, Finn, siblings Barbara Zullo and John Hermann, her father, William Hermann, and countless other family and friends. May she rest in peace.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Jean's name to a foundation close to her heart:
To Write Love on Her Arms:
https://give.twloha.com/fundraiser/4612851
A memorial service will be held at Ocean Community Church on April 19, 2023 at 6pm. A gathering will also take place an hour prior from 5pm until the time of service.
The church is located at: 1492 rt 72 west Manahawkin NJ, 08050 (609)597-5151
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Jean, please visit our floral store.