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BORN
1914
DIED
2019
Jean Near Obituary
Jean Gowan Near
December 31, 1914 July 14, 2019
Jean was born in Ukiah and spent most of her life in Mendocino County. After graduating from Potter Valley High School she
attended UC Berkeley where she earned a degree in English. Jean married John Ham, a Covelo native. She has two sons, John Thomas Ham, Jr. and William Charles Ham. She started her teaching career in Covelo, then went on to teach in Mendocino, Potter Valley, Philo and finally at Ukiah High School. She ended her tenure as the Dean of Girls there. She married Lowell Near in 1953 and they moved to Redwood Valley, where Jean achieved renown for the spinning wool from for her flock of colored sheep. Jean continued to do Tai Chi, win ribbons for her fleeces, publish her poetry, and participate in a book group until the end of her life. Jean attributed her long life to
"always having a reason to live, even
if it's just a couple of cats you have to feed."
Jean's sons, sister Jewell, grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces and nephews miss her dearly. A celebration of her life is planned for her 105th birthday, December 31, 2019 at the Grange Hall in Redwood
Valley.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Jean Near
Sponsored by UkiahDailyJournal.com.
4 Entries
Nancy Dorian
July 25, 2020
I just ran across an untouched fleece I had bought from Jean back in 2005 and decided to track her down. I didn't know she was such a renowned sheep breader that lived to be 105! Back then I didn't realize it was merino and really didn't know what I was doing! Now I see what a special fleece this is and will lovingly process it to create something wonderful in honor of her. ❤
Valerie Crawford/Shrum
September 21, 2019
I was one of her students at Ukiah High School. She was a very personable caring teacher. She always had a smile. Over the years I have never forgotten, Mrs. Near.
She is a very special lady.
❤❤
Marie Ady
September 14, 2019
Jean was an incredible lady. Always friendly and positive. I will miss very much having her "on this side of the grass", but I feel very lucky to be a relative and a friend. Rest in peace, Jean.
September 2, 2019
what a fine lady. i bought a fleece or two over the years and always was wishful when i saw each year's new offerings. i frequently bought lovely white roving from her and i still have a couple pounds now. i will spin them with thoughts of joy and enjoyment.
/s/nancy biggins
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