JEANNE MCGARVEY-LENNON- Obituary
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It is with heavy hearts and deep sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved mother, Jeanne , at the age of 93. She departed this world, leaving behind a legacy of strength, love, and unparalleled style that touched the lives of all who were fortunate enough to know her. Pre-deceased by her father, Edward A. Bowman and mother Marie C. Kelly, She leaves behind Her daughter, Lorraine Armento (Raymond, ex-husband), Philip J. McGarvey (Doreen), Marie Meglio (David), Joyce-Anne Kinsey (Ron Barnett) and Thomas J. McGarvey (Jacqueline).
Beyond her immediate family, she was a mother figure to many, extending her love and care to neighbors, friends, and extended family alike. To her 11 adoring grandchildren, and their spouses, several great-grandchildren, and even a recent addition as a great-great grandmother, she was affectionately known as “Mom-Mom.” She was also beloved by many nieces and nephews, and cherished them all.
Born and raised in South Philadelphia, Jeanne was a proud native who had an unwavering love for her city, particularly for the vibrant and joyous tradition of the Mummers. As a single mother for many years, she, alongside her father, instilled the values of hard work and the importance of education in her five children. Their home was a haven of energy, laughter, and music, a testament to the love and warmth she provided as the matriarch of her family.
Throughout her long career in the restaurant industry, she achieved success in some of the prominent center city establishments. Her charisma and dedication earned her the respect of local figures and endeared her to the hearts of many. Later in life, she settled in South Jersey, spending her senior years with her daughter, son-in-law, and cherished grandchildren, Sean and Jeannie, alongside her devoted pets Tiki and Ivy.
Her favorite pastimes included traveling with her family, creating memories at the Jersey Shore, tending to her beloved roses, delving into her passion for history, and sharing her wonderful sense of humor. Always Impeccably dressed she had an innate sense of style and good taste.
Even as her vision began to fail in later years, she faced the challenge with resilience and a positive outlook. Large print textbooks and online shopping became her new companions as she continued to engage with the world around her. Her phone was a lifeline to the many loving family members near and far, ending each call with the heartfelt words, “I love you so much.”
She leaves behind a treasure trove of cherished memories that will forever be etched in the hearts of those who knew and loved her. Her spirit lives on in the laughter of her family and the echoes of her love that will continue to resonate through generations.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in her memory to Saint Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 Saint Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105 or to the Animal Welfare Association, 509 Centennial Boulevard, Voorhees, NJ 08043-9504 .
Rest in peace, dear mom. You will be profoundly missed, and your love will forever guide us.
Relatives and friends are invited to her visitation on Friday, January 5, 2024, from 10:30 AM to 12:00 PM at the R.C. Church of the Nativity, 2677 Delsea Drive, Franklinville, NJ 08322 with a Funeral Mass beginning at 12:00 PM. Inurnment will be private at the convenience of the family. Sign the guestbook at BarclayFuneralHome.net.