Juanita "Jean" Blades

Juanita "Jean" Imogene (DeHoff) Blades, 97, Marion, passed away peacefully early Friday morning, July 25, 2025, to be with the Lord. Born in Roseburg, Indiana, on April 13, 1928, she was the daughter of the late Ervin and Mary Lucy DeHoff. She was married to the late Robert Blades, Sr.
Jean's heart belonged to Marion, where she lived her entire life and proudly raised her six children in a home she bought with her own determination. She was a cherished member of Unity Christian Church and an active participant in the Northeast Neighborhood Association of Grant County. Her work ethic shone brightly, from her early days at Custer's Last Stand to her dedicated 20 years in housekeeping at Marion General Hospital, from which she retired.
Beyond her commitments, Jean found immense joy in the simple beauty of her garden, spending countless hours cultivating flowers and tending to her yard. An avid traveler, she embraced every adventure, whether it was a simple day trip or the excitement of a week in Las Vegas. She had a flair for fashion, known for her love of getting dressed up and her extensive jewelry collection. Her favorite indulgence was Red Lobster, a tradition for every birthday celebration. Yet, above all her passions, her greatest love was her family, with whom she cherished every moment. Jean will be deeply missed by her wide circle of family and friends.
Jean's legacy lives on through her children, Richard (the late Rhonda) Blades, Linda (the late Danny) Paschall, Robert "Butch" (Lisa) Blades, Jr., and Joyce (David Cruzan, Jr.) Blades. She is also survived by her sisters, Rita (the late Jack) Clawson and Mary (the late Joe) Phillips; 17 grandchildren, 38 great-grandchildren, 46 great-great-grandchildren, and 2 great-great-great-grandchildren; along with numerous nieces, nephews, and friends.
She was preceded in death by her children, Jerry (Janet) Blades and Dixie Lloyd, and her siblings, Carolyn Jane DeHoff, Donald DeHoff, Fred DeHoff, William DeHoff, Mert DeHoff, David DeHoff, Ronald DeHoff, Harold DeHoff, and Wanda Dodson.
The family will receive visitors from 10:00 am to 12:00 noon on Friday, August 1, 2025, at Needham-Storey-Wampner Funeral & Cremation Service, North Chapel, 1341 N. Baldwin Ave., Marion, IN.
Immediately following the time of visitation, a service to celebrate Jean's life will begin at 12:00 noon with Pastor Kevin Greenlee officiating. Burial will take place at Gardens of Memory in Marion.
Memories may be shared online at www.nswcares.com.