Jean Ann (Bish) Deeley

Jean Ann (Bish) Deeley, 70, of Punxsutawney, died Tuesday, April 27, 2021, in Wilmington, NC, surrounded by her family.

She was born June 4, 1950, in Punxsutawney, daughter to the late Verna (Dinger) and Palmer Bish.

On June 8, 1974, she married William C. Deeley; those who knew them as a couple would often hear her saying “Oh Bill!” and Bill would often refer to her as “Queen Jean!”

She graduated from Indiana University of Pennsylvania with a bachelor’s degree and earned her teaching certificate at Clarion University of Pennsylvania. Jean taught in the Curwensville School District for four years as a third-grade teacher. After the birth of their first daughter, Jean worked as a secretary for the family business, Deeley Funeral Home; there, she was the glue that held it together.

Jean was an active member of the Punxsutawney Garden Club, former Board of Director for the Punxsutawney Area Hospital, and former board member for the Punxsutawney Memorial Library. Jean was a member of the Presbyterian Church of Punxsutawney where she previously served as a deacon.

Her favorite times were those spent with her family, especially her grandchildren. She was an avid gardener, enjoying workdays with friends in the Garden Club and planting flowers at her home and farm. She loved traveling with Bill and friends. One of her favorite destinations was Wrightsville Beach, NC, where she enjoyed sunny beach days with her family. While she hadn’t skied in years, she also loved weekends at Holiday Valley. She had an infectious laugh, warm smile, generous spirit, and a secret competitive streak when playing games. Simply put, she was the best wife, mother, grandmother, and friend.

In addition to her husband Bill, she is survived by two daughters, Beth Deeley and spouse Hilary of Canonsburg, PA, and Michele Stavovy of Wilmington, NC; four grandchildren, Thomas and Christopher Deeley, and Lily and Max Stavovy; brother, Kenneth Bish and wife Diane of Beaver Creek, OH; sister, Betty Heitzenrater and husband Chuck of Erie, PA; sister-in-law, Wanda Marie Bish of Blue Bell, PA; and brother-in-law, Doug Deeley and wife Susie of Punxsutawney, PA. She was preceded in death by her parents and brothers, Bob Bish and Allen Bish.

Friends will be received from 3 to 7 p.m., Friday, May 7, 2021, at the Deeley Funeral Home, Punxsutawney. Covid guidelines will be followed with masks and social distancing required.

A private service will be held for the family with Reverend Erin Kobs officiating.

Interment will be in Hopewell Cemetery, Punxsutawney.

In lieu of flowers, the Deeley family suggests memorial contributions be made to the Punxsutawney Garden Club for the continued beautification of Punxsutawney. Memorials can be mailed to 204 Pine Street, Punxsutawney, PA, 15767.

Online condolences may be made at www.deeleyfuneralhome.com.


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