Jean Eileen Hedges

Jean Eileen Hedges, a beloved member of her family and community, passed away on January 1, 2026, at the age of 97. Born on September 9, 1928, in Columbus, Ohio, Jean lived a life that truly embodied warmth and love. She graduated from West High School in 1946 and became a lifelong member of St. John Lutheran Church, demonstrating her faith and commitment to her community.

Jean married her high school sweetheart, Jack E. Hedges, on June 19, 1947. Together, they shared many cherished moments, building a loving family that Jean adored deeply. She was preceded in death by her husband, Jack, and her beloved grandsons: Shaun and Jerry Lee Hoover, and Mike Engelhoff. She also mourned the loss of her parents, Esther and Charles Weidner, along with her sister and brother-in-law, Virginia and Wilbur Minnameyer, and her brother and sister-in-law, Charles and Sally Weidner.

Jean is survived by her loving children, Stephen (Barb) Hedges, Craig (Janet) Hedges, Diane (Jerry) Hoover, and Mary Beth (Danny) Elswick. Her legacy continues through her grandchildren: Scott (Debby) Hedges, Heather (Jim) Large, Christopher (Jill) Hedges, Katie (Mike) Harlor, Todd (Eileen) Elswick, Joshua (Sarah) Elswick, Travis and Justin Dresbach, Tom (Liz) Egelhoff, Steve (Suely) Egelhoff, Chad Egelhoff, and Scott (Jill) Egelhoff. Jean was also proud of her great-grandchildren, including Maddy, Tommy, Hadley, Caden Hedges, Zachary, Brooke, Jack, Kennedy Elswick, Rylee, Reeslyn Harlor, Andrew, Addison Hutchinson, Emily Morgan, Wyatt, John, Nate, Rowan, Alexander, Julia, and Sam Egelhoff.

Known for her larger-than-life personality, Jean had a heart that was always open, never having met a stranger. She found joy in her family get-togethers—often house hopping—and relished trips with family, especially to Amish Country. Jean enjoyed participating in her church family activities, playing euchre with her friends, and attending bunco nights. She also had a fondness for visiting casinos and enjoyed traveling whenever she could, taking in the beauty of the world around her. Jean loved watching sports and particularly enjoyed indulging in the game channel.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the staff at the London Bluebird Retirement Community and Affinity Hospice for their compassionate care and support during her time there.

Jean Eileen Hedges will be dearly missed but will forever remain in the hearts of her family and friends. Viewing services will be held on January 10, 2026, from 8:00 AM to 10:00 AM, followed by a funeral service at 10:00 AM at Newcomer Funeral Home, Southwest, located at 3393 Broadway, Grove City, Ohio. A burial will take place later that day at 11:30 AM at Sunset Cemetery in Galloway, Ohio, ensuring that Jean rests peacefully.

Contributions to:

Affinity Hospice

9349 Waterstone Blvd.

Suite 340

Cincinnati, Ohio 45249

OR

St. John's Lutheran Church

2745 West Broad St.

Columbus, Ohio 43204