Jeannine V. Gillen

Jeannine V. Gillen, a devoted soul whose life was a tapestry woven with love, service, and unwavering dedication, passed away peacefully on December 10, 2025, at Cheyenne Regional Medical Center, surrounded by her deeply cherished family. Born on March 2, 1931, in Sheridan, Wyoming, Jeannine embodied a spirit of resilience and nurturing from the very beginning.

Throughout her life, Jeannine made an indelible mark upon her community. A member of Cheyenne High School, she harnessed her education to enrich the lives of those around her. Jeannine’s heart overflowed with a passion for gardening, which manifested in her lengthy commitment to garden clubs. As a long-time active member of the Seed and Weed Garden Club, and later the Prairie Garden Club, she not only traveled extensively with fellow garden enthusiasts but also ascended to the esteemed position of national president of the Garden Club, a testament to her hard work and leadership. Jeannine was not just a gardener; she was a mentor, a wealth of knowledge, and a tireless advocate for the beauty and joy that gardening brought to those who embraced it. Her legacy continues within the Wyoming Federation of Garden Clubs, Inc., where her lifetime membership echoes her contributions and love for nature.

Jeannine’s commitment to serving others extended beyond gardening. She volunteered at St. Mary’s Cathedral in Cheyenne, selflessly preparing meals for parish funerals. The aroma of her famed cinnamon rolls wafted through the air as she delighted the children at the Laramie Rodeo Club, where her warmth and caring spirit created a nurturing environment for young rodeo enthusiasts. Her heart knew no bounds; she also lent her compassion to DePaul and Cheyenne Regional Medical Center, assisting nurses in same-day surgery—a reflection of her innate desire to provide comfort to those in need.

Family was the cornerstone of Jeannine’s life. She adored her husband, Alfred Gillen, whom she lost but carried in her heart. Her pride for her children—Gail Tavelli, John Gillen and his wife Nancy, Margy Toro and her husband Duane, Coleen Weinland and her husband Bob, Jane Tweed and her husband Bob, and Hyde Gillen, and   his wife Shondee Gillen—was evident in every conversation, every story shared. Jeannine’s legacy lives on through her beloved 19 grandchildren, 26 great-grandchildren, and 4 great-great-grandchildren, each one a testament to her nurturing love and unwavering support. She created a loving environment, which shone brightly during family gatherings, particularly memorable during Thanksgiving, where games, delicious food, and heartfelt stories filled the air with joyous laughter.

Jeannine's personality was a reflection of her faith; she was a devoted Catholic who found strength and solace in her beliefs. Throughout her life, she exemplified hard work and determination. Her proudest accomplishments included earning her GED later in life—an inspiring endeavor she undertook to demonstrate her capability—and her enduring legacy within the garden club community.

Jeannine is survived by her adoring children and grandchildren, who find solace in the beautiful memories they shared with her. She joins her late husband Alfred, daughter Nancy, son Craig, and grandsons Ben and Tony, who welcomed her with open arms in the eternal embrace of love.

A prayer service will be held in her honor on February 5, 2026, at the Schrader, Aragon and Jacoby Funeral Home in Cheyenne, followed by a funeral service at St. Mary’s Cathedral on February 6, 2026. Friends and family are invited to gather at Hartmann Hall for remembrance after the funeral.

Jeannine V. Gillen will be remembered not only for her remarkable accomplishments but also for the boundless love she shared, the countless lives she touched, and the nurturing spirit that radiated from her very being. Her legacy is one of dedication—both to her family and her community—a true embodiment of grace and kindness.

In Lieu of flower please consider making a donation to St Joseph's Children's Home in Torrington, or the Cathedral of St. Mary, in Cheyenne.