Jean McLean

Old Lyme — Jean McLean, 83, died peacefully, with her family by her side, on Feb. 10, 2018, after a brief illness.

A lifelong resident of Old Lyme, Jean was born April 5, 1934, to Margaret (Clarke) and Lewis McLean. A graduate of the University of Connecticut, Jean spent her career teaching elementary school, briefly in Old Lyme and then for many years in the East Lyme School District.

After her retirement, she enjoyed spending time with her friends and family and going for daily walks. She was active at the Lymes’ Senior Center and enjoyed a variety of activities there, especially her painting classes. She was a member of the Ladies Benevolent Society of the First Congregational Church and a dedicated volunteer at its annual White Elephant Sale. She was also a longtime league bowler. Jean loved to remember friends and family with cards and gifts on holidays and special occasions and was always devoted to the care and well-being of her cats. She was quite proud of her Irish heritage and kept in touch with family in Ireland and around the U.S.

Besides her parents, Jean was predeceased by her brother, Robert G. McLean. She is survived by her two nieces, Lizabeth McLean Haas and Marcia McLean, and their families. She also leaves behind many dear friends who will miss her cheery enthusiasm and genial personality and were there for her until she passed.

A Memorial Service will take place at 11 a.m. on Friday, Feb. 16, at the First Congregational Church in Old Lyme. In lieu of flowers, donations in Jean’s memory can be made to the Lymes’ Senior Center.