Jean McCormack
Jean McCormack, beloved mother, grandmother, stained glass artist, multitalented woman of the world and Queen of Wilway Avenue died peacefully in her home on Monday evening, 8/30/21.
It was a quiet, gentle passing, blessed with dignity and grace, surrounded by love with little Robbie at her side.
Jean was born on June 12, 1926 in Kansas City, Missouri. She grew up during the Great Depression and never forgot the lessons of that time. She played the part of a Minister’s Wife in Act I, and wowed the congregation with her beautiful voice. She played piano and had a deep love of all things musical. When she found herself free of the duties of Act I, she took her daughter to Europe on a whim and reveled in the adventure of it all. She was fun, funny, spontaneous, goofy and always creative in her approach to life. Act II found her traveling across the United States with her second husband, Mac. They camped and fished and hiked and toured as many National Parks as they could. In her lifetime, she traveled to England, Ireland, Scotland, Switzerland, Russia, Mexico and countless other places that many only dream of seeing. She played bridge with a passion and sang her heart out with the Highland Harmonizers chorus. She was a beloved fixture in the neighborhood, walking Robbie around the park twice a day without fail until the final months of her life. She had a lifelong obsession with Route 66 and Queen Elizabeth, because, at 95, she was the same age as both. She had a collection of memorabilia that could put anyone else to shame. She was an avid reader, quilter, movie lover, letter-writer and the best friend you could ever have. She collected teacups, salt and pepper shakers, spoons, dolls and anything to do with hummingbirds or dragonflies. She had an endless curiosity and a passion for learning new things. She loved color and light, windmills and wind chimes. She was passionate about politics and the environment, and tried always to do the right thing.
Jean never wanted a funeral; she just wanted a big party. To honor her wishes, a celebration of her life for neighbors and friends will be held on September 18, 2021. As she requested, her ashes will be split and scattered to the winds at Yosemite and the Grand Canyon. She’ll be found whenever you see a reflection of light or a glimmer of color through glass; so take a moment, smile, and wave to the Queen.