Jean Mary St Jean, 94, of Keene, N.H., and formerly of Southbury, passed away on April 10, 2025, at her home in Keene, surrounded by her loving family, following a brief illness.

Jean was born on May 1, 1930, in Belchertown, Mass., the daughter of Jack and Clara (LeGrande) Prendergast. Jean and her brother Bill grew up in Wilbraham, Mass., on Nine Mile Pond, a place that would always hold special memories.

During her younger years, she was an avid swimmer, badminton player and pianist.

Jean and her family moved to Connecticut where she worked for the Town of Newtown for 49 years, retiring at the age of 87. Over her career, she held many administrative positions and provided staff support for the Newtown Board of Appeals, Borough Zoning Commission and the Borough Zoning Board of Appeals. She also played a major role in zoning enforcement. Throughout her career she was recognized as a mentor to many and was highly respected for her knowledge and expertise.

She spent many years at her home in Truro, Mass., on Cape Cod, making cherished memories with family and friends. Jean loved the ocean and realized her dream of becoming a “Beach Bum.”

After retirement, she spent time traveling among her children and grandchildren’s homes in Connecticut, New Hampshire, New York and Texas.

Remaining to cherish Jean’s memory are daughters, Sharon Russo of Brookfield, and Cindi Coughlin (Rich) of Walpole, N.H.; son, Leon St Jean (Ilse) of San Antonio, Texas; grandchildren, Jason Coughlin (Kaytii), Angelique Tringali (John), Richard Coughlin (Nancy), Gabi St Jean, Zak St Jean, and Logan St Jean; niece Katie Fernandes (Bill); nephew, Kevin Prendergast (Val); and many dear friends.

Her parents; a brother, William Prendergast; a sister-in-law, Catherine Prendergast; a son-in-law, John Russo; and a nephew, Sean Prendergast, predeceased her.

A memorial mass will be celebrated on June 14 at 1 pm at St Rose of Lima Church, 46 Church Hill Road in Newtown. All are welcome to attend.

Memorial donations in Jean’s name may be made to the American House Employee Fund c/o Hilary Seifer Executive Director, 197 Water Street, Keene NH 03431.

The Foley Funeral Home of Keene, N.H., is entrusted with Jean’s care. To offer online condolences to the family or to share special memories, please visit foleyfuneralhome.com.