Jeanne T. Ransom

Lake Placid, Fl - Jeanne Therese Ransom (Lessard) passed away peacefully, surrounded by family, in Madison, Wisconsin, on Christmas Day, December 25, 2025 — her favorite day of the year.

Jeanne was born into a Navy family in Corpus Christi, Texas, and spent many wonderful and adventurous childhood years in Dahlgren, Virginia, experiences that helped shape her independence, resilience, and lifelong sense of curiosity. She attended Fenton High School in Bensenville, Illinois, and went on to complete her nurses training and begin her career at Michael Reese Hospital in Chicago, where she embarked on the calling that would define her life.

Some of Jeanne’s most treasured moments were spent at the family cabin on Gilbert Lake in Wild Rose, Wisconsin. It was there that she was happiest — soaking up the sun on the pier, enjoying summer days on the boat, and making lifelong memories while surrounded by family and her dearest friends. The lake was a place of laughter, connection, and peace, and it held a special place in her heart.

Jeanne also had a deep love for golf, a passion that brought her joy, camaraderie, and purpose. She spent many years serving as President of the Lake Placid Golf Club Ladies Golf League, where she made countless dear friends and left a lasting legacy of fun, friendship, and generosity. Her leadership, warmth, and enthusiasm enriched the lives of everyone she played alongside.

Jeanne is survived by her devoted husband, Gene Ransom; her children, Nichole (Steve) Schick and Brian (Jenny) Ransom; and her cherished grandchildren, Jordyn Schick, Tyler Schick, and Bentley Ransom. She is also survived by her sister, Michelle (Mark) Shepherd; her brother- and sister-in-law, Guy and Debbie Ransom; and her beloved nieces and nephews: Brent (Karol) Shepherd, Blair (Amber) Shepherd, Seth Shepherd, Joe (Kim) Lessard, Bob Lessard, Samantha (Alex) Estrada, and Erin (Jim) Kilcoyne, as well as many great-nieces and great-nephews who brought her immense joy.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Joseph and Florence Lessard (Gauthier); her parents-in-law, Charles and Marion Ransom (Diebel); and her brother, Joseph Lessard.

Jeanne was an emergency medicine nurse whose life’s work was rooted in compassion, strength, and service. She thrived in organized chaos and was a calm, steady, and capable presence during many of her patients’ most vulnerable hours. Her dedication to caring for others extended far beyond her profession and into every corner of her life.

A pillar of strength, joy, laughter, love, and compassion, Jeanne left a lasting impact on all who were fortunate enough to know her. Standing just over five feet tall, she was fearless and feisty — full of passion and determination — and, above all else, a source of endless unconditional love and fun.

Jeanne was a devoted and loving wife, mother, grandmother, daughter, sister, and friend. She will be missed beyond measure, but her family takes comfort in knowing she is watching over them, spreading her sunshine and joy, “As big as the sky.”

A Celebration of Life will be held in Florida in late spring, with a church service in Wisconsin in early summer. Additional details will be shared at a later time.

Cress Funeral & Cremation Service

3325 E. Washington Ave.

Madison (608) 249-6666

Please share your memories at www.cressfuneralservice.com