URGENT UPDATE: Jean Turle, a cherished educator and community member, passed away peacefully on December 2, 2025, in Gardnerville, Nevada, at the age of 88. Her life, marked by compassion and dedication, has left an indelible impact on her family and community.
Born on November 25, 1937, in Bournemouth, England, Jean Turle’s journey began with a courageous move to the United States in 1963. Alongside her husband, Michael, and their son Steve, she arrived in New York before embarking on a cross-country train trip to Reno, Nevada. This pivotal journey opened a new chapter filled with opportunity, love, and resilience as Jean embraced her new life while holding onto her English roots.
Jean’s professional life was dedicated to education, primarily with the Lake Tahoe Unified School District. She served as an instructional aide and later specialized in special education, where her passion for nurturing children of all ages shone brightly. Colleagues and students alike remember her warmth and patience, qualities that left lasting impressions. After a fulfilling career, she retired in 1997, having touched the lives of countless young learners.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Jean found joy in the simple pleasures of life. She was an avid hiker, exploring the beauty of nature whenever possible, and enjoyed the challenge of jigsaw puzzles. A devoted fan of the San Francisco Giants, she seldom missed a game, with evenings often filled with laughter while playing Mexican train with friends and family.
In 2004, Jean and Michael embraced a new lifestyle as snowbirds, purchasing a park model home in Apache Junction, Arizona. This move forged close bonds with fellow residents and created cherished memories under the desert sun. Travel was another passion, with Jean making frequent trips back to England to visit family and exploring the Pacific Northwest and Canada. A particularly memorable trip was a cruise to Alaska, celebrating her and Michael’s 25th wedding anniversary.
Jean was a devoted mother to Stephen and his wife Lori, as well as Gregory and Samantha, and Victoria and Susan. She took immense pride in her grandchildren, Tucker, Ray, and Taylor, whose lives were enriched by her presence. Jean’s beloved husband, Michael, preceded her in death, yet his memory remained a constant source of strength throughout her life.
Jean Turle’s legacy is one of kindness, dedication, and quiet strength. Her memory will live on through all who knew her as a mother, grandmother, colleague, neighbor, or friend. May her cherished memory bring comfort to those she loved.
For those wishing to honor Jean’s life, donations can be made to plant trees in her memory by visiting the sympathy store.
