Jean S. Boch (aka Mama Jean), 88, of Taylorville, passed away peacefully at her home on Friday, Dec. 1, 2017.
Jean was born May 25th 1929 in Moweaqua, IL. She was a long time resident of Taylorville, IL. She worked for many years as a care giver for Hands Across Illinois, retiring in 2002. Other places of employment include: Malloy’s, Midway Tavern, and T&C Lounge. Jean was also the lead vocalist for the Edinburg Opera House Band, as well as, Jeanie and the Boys (band). In addition, she was a Senior Regent of the Taylorville Moose Lodge Post 1516.
Jean was devoted to her family and loved spending time with her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great great grandchildren. She had a tremendous love for music. Jean was a talented vocalist and pianist. She also enjoyed reading, crafting, puzzle solving, cooking, bingo, and playing Yahtzee and poker with her friends and family.
Jean was preceded in death by her parents: Naomi and Robert McQuality; her son: James G. Tirpak; her niece: Linda Allen; two sisters and four brothers; three great grandchildren; and son-in-law: Terry Ostermeier.
She is survived by her children: Andrea (Dale) Smith of Riverton, IL., Michael (Linda) Tirpak of Cerro Gordo, IL., Steven (Diane) Tirpak of Leroy, IL., Shirley Ostermeier of Taylorville, IL., SuAnn (Arnold) Tullis of Virginia, IL., Richard (Michel) Thompson of Daytona, FL., 20 grandchildren, 45 great grandchildren, 2 great-great grandchildren, and many loving nieces and nephews.
All whom loved her dearly will never forget her tenacity, wit, charm, humorous personality, and beautiful voice.
There will be a public visitation held on Monday, Dec. 11, 2017 from 4 - 7 p.m. at McClure Funeral Home, 302 W. Poplar St. Taylorville, IL. As Jean would say, “The more the merrier.” In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Boch Family, c/o McClure Funeral Home. McClure Funeral Home and Cremation Services is assisting the family with arrangements.
