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BORN
1945
DIED
2025
UPCOMING SERVICE
Celebration Of Life
Nov. 22, 2025
2:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Central Community Christian Church Pavilion
Send FlowersJean Keplinger Obituary
March 27, 1945 -
November 6, 2025
Jean Gouge Keplinger, 80, of Unicoi, passed on November 6, 2025 at her home surrounded by loved ones. Born in Carter County, Jean was the daughter of the late John and Oleta Gouge.
Jean graduated from Unicoi County High School in 1963. She later attended Katharine Betz Business College in Cincinnati. In 2009, Jean retired from the Nuclear Regulatory Commission in Erwin.
In addition to her parents, Jean was preceded in death by her brothers Joe Gouge (and wife Bonnie), James "Jim" Gouge, nephew Joel Gouge, niece Julie Gouge, and brother-in-law George Messer.
Left to cherish her memory are her devoted husband of 56 years, Wayne Keplinger; sons Mark Keplinger (Trisha) and Jon Keplinger (Amy); five grandsons - Benjamin, Markus, Nicholas, William, and Andrew; siblings Jack Gouge (Thelma), June Messer, and John "Bud" Gouge (Judy); sister-in-law Jean Gouge; and a host of beloved nieces, nephews, and cousins.
During retirement, Jean and Wayne could often be found performing at local venues, sharing their love of music - especially with Tennessee Hills Mountain Melodies and Burl Mast's Red Barn. Through these performances, Jean made many dear friends. Music was at the heart of her life, and nothing brought her greater joy than a good song and a get-together with those she loved.
Jean's love for her family defined her life. She treasured family reunions and time spent with her grandchildren, each of whom held a special place in her heart. She took great pride in their accomplishments and in watching them grow into respectable young men.
Jean was a remarkable woman who led by example. She believed deeply in empathy, kindness, and compassion, always striving to make the world a better place. Through her actions, she inspired those around her to live with the same sense of care and purpose.
A Celebration of Life for Jean will be held on Saturday, November 22, 2025, from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. at Central Community Christian Church Pavilion, 137 Hopson Road, Johnson City, Tennessee.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memorial Events
for Jean Keplinger
Memories and Condolences
for Jean Keplinger
2 Entries
June, and Stephen McDonald
Earlier today
My wife June, and I have had the privilege of knowing Jean, and Wayne Keplinger for quite a few years. We know their grandsons very well also, we happen to be their grandparents on their mother's side.
We shared visits from time to time at family gatherings, and it was always a great joy to spend time with Jean, and Wayne. I will particularly miss Jean at Thanksgiving when we had so many wonderful holidays together. It will be especially hard for my wife June, her and Jean had gotten close over the years.
In the midst of all that we find ourselves feeling in a time like this, there is a gloriously bright hope. June, and I look forward to the day when we fellowship once again with Jean around the Saviors throne.
What a day that will be!
Until then we love you Jean, and forever hold the Keplinger family in our hearts, and prayers.
BILL PERHNE
November 15, 2025
We were neighbors of Wayne and Jean for many years. Our boys would play with their boys. I remember when my wife, Carolyn, fell while I was at work. I called Jean and asked her if she would take Carolyn to the doctor. I always remember how kind she was. She said, I will go right now. What a thoughtful person she was. The world needs more people like her!
Bill and Carolyn Perhne
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