Jeanne Marie Shillings

Wednesday, May 22, 2024

Jeanne Marie Shillings, 70, passed away May 11, 2024 at Hendricks Regional Health with her family by her side.

She was born in Illinois on May 6, 1954 to Samuel and Carol (Burney) Pearson.

Jeanne, a 1972 graduate of North Putnam High School, married David Shillings, her husband of 51 years, on April 27, 1973. He survives. Their union produced three children, Derek Shillings of Greencastle, Pamela Berry of Greencastle and Nicholas (Anna) Shillings of Scotland.

She was employed for the last 23 years at Asbury Towers. She was devoted to her job and took great pride in helping others. Prior to joining Asbury Towers, she worked in local factories for many years. She began working in food service as a teenager and subsequently met her husband. She had fond memories of her time working as a waitress and as a cook, especially at DePauw’s hub.

Jeanne will be remembered for her practicality, compassion and loyalty. She possessed unending patience and determination. Jeanne had a distinctive laugh that could change the tone of the situation. Her laughter and playfulness brought pleasure to her family and friends. She spent many weekends on “long rides” exploring with her son, Derek. She was a voice of reason for many. Her objective assessment of most situations made her a trustworthy source for family and friends seeking direction.

Music was a source of pleasure and inspiration for Jeanne. She enjoyed concerts and listening to many genres of music. She enjoyed watching television (followed by in-depth analysis) and cherished time with her family and friends. She was an avid photographer in her younger years. Her crisp sense of humor and thoughtful silence will be missed.

She was a proud grandmother to Melea Berry. Jeanne is also survived by sisters Roberta (Bobbi) Williams and Rick of Greencastle, Elizabeth (Betty) Bricker of Greencastle, Sandra McCammon of Lafayette and Linda Stevens of Cloverdale; and brothers George Pearson and Tanya of Bainbridge; William Pearson of Bloomington; Donald Pearson of Greencastle and Cecil Pearson of California. She is also survived by many nieces, nephews and other family members.

She was preceded in death by her parents and her sister, Terri Scott.

In keeping with her wishes, she became an organ donor and was cremated.

Visitation will be held at the Coatesville Community Center from 4-7 pm on Monday, June 10. A private family service will follow the visitation.