Jean Mcpartland

Narvon, PA – Regina “Jean” Helena McPartland, 94, passed away on June 23 at Zerbe Retirement Community where she resided for the last eight years.

Born in Philadelphia on December 6, 1930, Jean was the youngest of 13 siblings. She was preceded in death by her husband, Jim McPartland and all 12 of her sisters and brothers. She is survived by her five children: Pat McPartland, Donna McPartland, Jim McPartland, Linda Ohrum, and Jeannette Esslinger, as well as 11 grandchildren, 9 great-grandchildren and a large extended family of nieces and nephews.

Jean was a force of nature and raised five children while pursuing her nursing degrees and working full time as a nurse’s aid, LPN, and RN. She worked the night shift for over two decades finding camaraderie in her cherished “breakfast club” of fellow nurses. She fiercely advocated for those in need and her door was always open when someone needed help.

Independent and adventurous, Jean explored many of the lower 48 states by car. She had a rebellious streak and was determined to read all the books on the banned book list. In retirement, she continued meeting and traveling with her “breakfast club” friends.

She was the proud matriarch of her family. To her grandchildren, grand nieces and nephews, and great grandchildren, she was “Mom Mom”, a steady presence with a freezer full of ice cream and rules that were meant to be followed. Her voice carried weight and her love was clear.

In her later years, Jean appreciated receiving cards and notes from loved ones, storing them in small bundles and proudly sharing them with visitors. Her outgoing nature endeared her to everyone, especially at Zerbe Retirement Community, where staff and fellow residents alike knew her by name.

Jean will be dearly missed by her children, grandchildren, extended family and friends, and the Zerbe Community that embraced her so warmly.

A celebration of life service will be held in August. Online condolences and memories may be posted at www.groffeckenroth.com. The Groff-High Funeral Home, New Holland is in charge of arrangements.