Jean R. Dew

Jean Reeder Dew, 86, formerly of Chadds Ford, PA passed away on Tuesday, May 2nd at Simpson Meadows in Downingtown, PA.

Jean was the beloved wife of Thomas R. Dew with whom she shared forty five years of marriage prior to his passing in 2002.

Jean was born in Langhorne, PA on May 22nd, 1930 to William and Grace Reeder. She graduated from high school at George School in Newtown, PA and earned a Bachelor’s degree in elementary education from Earlham College in Richmond, IN. Prior to her marriage and children, Jean taught elementary school in Bucks County, PA and Greenville, DE. After a career break to raise her family, she returned to teaching in the late 1970’s in the Garnet Valley and Chichester, PA school districts.

Jean enjoyed her family and watching her kids sporting events. She was ahead of her time, snapping thousands of pictures to record every event – long before the advent of smartphones or Facebook. She loved children, animals (especially cats) and the Philadelphia sports teams.

Jean was a member of Wilmington Friends Meeting. As a member of the Meeting and a parent, she was devoted to Wilmington Friends School and served as a trustee of that institution for multiple terms.

Jean is survived by her son, Thomas R., Jr. and wife, Lisa; son, Kevin and wife, Lynda and five grandchildren – Ryan, Colin , Madison, Ian and Molly.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Jean’s name may be made to Wilmington Friends School or the Alzheimer’s Association.