Jean Marie Conklin

Jean Marie Conklin of St. Joseph passed away peacefully on May 23, 2026, surrounded by her family, including her husband William “Bill” Lee Conklin, whom she married on July 14,1979 and their two sons, Wade (Alexandria) Conklin and Andrew (Amber) Conklin.

Born in Detroit, on June 21,1949 to the late Margaret “Peg” (Wade) and Gordon Wells Wilcox, Jean is survived by her sister, Julie (Marvin) Raguse; and her brother, James (Kathy) Wilcox.

Andy and Amber’s three sons, Colton, Vinny, and Rocky were highlights in Jean’s life. She relished their sleepovers, ball games, bike rides, and holiday celebrations. Her care for children was the core of her professional life. After graduating from Western Michigan University with a master’s degree, she taught as an elementary school teacher and later as a reading specialist in the River Valley School District.

After retirement Jean dove into research and writing, especially local history. She wrote articles, contributed to the Lest We Forget books and co-authored a Red Arrow Highway blog full of Southwest Michigan history. Jean’s artistic skills led her to create magnificent dolls in period attire and design unique, stunning quilts.

Jean dedicated her free time to mentoring students at Our Lady of the Lake Elementary School, volunteering in the library at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church and School in Stevensville, serving on the Board of the Lincoln Township Library, and volunteering at the St. Vincent de Paul Society in St. Joseph, Michigan.

Her vitality, community contributions, wit and vibrant smile will be sorely missed. Julie said, “She was the best friend and sister anyone could ask for.” Jean requested no black attire at her visitation and to come ready to play a game or three.

Visitation will be held 2 – 4 PM on Sunday, May 31, 2026 at Pike Funeral and Cremation Services, The Boyd Chapel, 9191 Red Arrow Highway, Bridgman, MI. The funeral mass will be at 10 AM on Monday, June 1, 2026 at St. Joseph Catholic Church, 220 Church Street, St. Joseph, MI. Light refreshments to follow the service, before the 12 PM burial at Riverview Cemetery, St. Joseph. Memorial contributions may be given to St. Vincent de Paul Society, 301 Wayne St., St. Joseph, MI 49085. Online condolences accepted at www.PikeFH.com.

Arrangements are entrusted to Pike Funeral and Cremation Services, The Boyd Chapel, 9191 Red Arrow Hwy, Bridgman.