Jean A. Fox

A memorial graveside service for Jean A. Fox will be held on Saturday, October 17, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. at the Highland Cemetery in Bertrand, Nebraska, with Mr. Joe Wilken officiating.

Jean Annette Fox, beloved sister, aunt, friend, and mentor, passed away on September 30, 2026, surrounded by the love and memories of the many people whose lives she touched. She was born in Holdrege, Nebraska, on December 15, 1947, and grew up in Bertrand, where she graduated with the class of 1966.

From an early age, Jean had a curious mind and a love for learning and the arts. During high school, she was active in Pep Club and band, where she played the clarinet. She went on to attend Kearney State College, graduating in 1973 with a bachelor’s degree in English. She later earned her master’s degree from the University of Nebraska at Omaha in 1988.

Although Jean majored in English, one of her true passions was fashion. She had an appreciation for style, beauty, and the little details that made life special. She was also incredibly intelligent, with a remarkable memory and a quick mind. Those who knew her will remember her as an ace at Jeopardy, always ready with an answer and likely to know something everyone else didn’t.

Jean believed deeply in the importance of education and was a tremendous advocate for continuing to learn and grow. She encouraged those around her to pursue their goals and further their education, offering unwavering support, wisdom, and encouragement along the way. Her commitment to serving others extended beyond her family and friends. She served on the Nebraska State Board of Chiropractic Examiners and found many ways throughout her life to give back to her community.

Jean was also an incredibly thoughtful gift giver. She never simply picked up a gift for the sake of having something to give. She took the time to think about the person, their interests, their personality, and what would make them smile. She would go out of her way to find something unique and perfectly suited to the person receiving it. Her gifts were a reflection of the care and thought she put into the people she loved—a small but meaningful example of how deeply she paid attention to those around her.

For her three nieces and one nephew, Jean was so much more than an aunt. She was an adventure maker, a source of encouragement, and someone who made ordinary days feel special. Living in Omaha gave Jean the perfect backdrop for creating memories with them. She loved taking them to the “big city” for adventures—attending the College World Series, enjoying evenings at Jazz on the Green, discovering new restaurants, and simply spending time together. Those experiences became cherished memories that will live on in her family for generations.

Jean had a generous spirit and a genuine interest in the lives of others. She was intelligent, independent, stylish, curious, and deeply caring. She had a way of making people feel supported and encouraged, and her absence will be felt by the many friends, family members, and loved ones who were fortunate enough to know her.

Jean was preceded in death by her parents, Spencer Fox and Alice Lenore (Smith) Fox, as well as several aunts, uncles, and grandparents.

She is survived by her brothers, Lynn (Karen) Fox of Billings, Montana, and Wayne Fox of Bertrand, Nebraska; her sister, Kim (Dave) Anderson of Kearney, Nebraska; her nephew, Cory (Mehgan) Fox of Omaha, Nebraska; and her nieces, Kiley Sidman of Overland Park, Kansas, Wendy Fox of Ohio, and Erin Gehrig of Omaha, Nebraska. She is also survived by many aunts, cousins, friends, and others whose lives she touched throughout her remarkable life.

Jean leaves behind not only the accomplishments of a life devoted to learning, service, and family, but also countless memories filled with laughter, adventure, conversation, and love. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

There will be no visitation or memorial book signing. The family is honoring Jean’s wish for cremation.

Memorials in Jean’s honor are suggested to the family for a later designation.

Expressions of caring and kindness can be sent to the family at www.nelsonbauerfh.com 

The Nelson-Bauer Funeral Home in Holdrege is in charge of the arrangements.