Jeannine Louise Magness was born June 7, 1931 to Gee and Dollie Magness in Harrison, Arkansas. She passed away peacefully on April 28, 2025 at the age of 93 at the Manor at Elfindale.

She was preceded in death by her parents, two sisters, Betty L. Cox and Jane Meyers, and nephew Bruce Meyers. She is survived by her niece, Cindy Burrell and husband Stephen, great nephew Ryan Burrell and wife Brenda, great niece Sara Kilmer and husband Dustin, great-great nephew Julian Burrell, and great-great nieces Ansley and Avery Kilmer. Also surviving are cousins Rick and Debbie Foster, Steven and Jennifer Deulen, and Matt and Chad Foster and their families.

Better known as “Jean” or “Nene” by her family and close friends, she retired after working for more than forty years at City Utilities as head of the computer department. Even after retirement, she kept in touch with many of her co-workers through a shared “birthday club” social group and attended the annual City Utilities picnic with her niece and nephew for many years.

She was a long-time member of National Heights Baptist Church in Springfield, MO, often attending the earliest service with her sister and other friends. She contributed to a multitude of charities, and was known for her giving and generous nature.

Nene was always the life of the party, ready for fun and laughs. She loved the cabin in Forsyth, MO, where our family spent many happy hours aboard the pontoon boat. Aside from the family and friends that she loved so dearly, she enjoyed fishing, swimming, and collecting antiques. Bowling was a particular favorite, where she played in leagues with her sister Jane and other friends for many years.  As a life-long sports fan, she faithfully followed the St Louis Cardinals, the Kansas City Chiefs, and her beloved Missouri State University Lady Bears basketball team.

She will be remembered for her fiercely independent spirit and her love for her family. Although age diminished her level of activity, it never lessened her feisty personality.

We will miss her greatly.

Thank you to the staff of the Manor at Elfindale and Seasons Hospice for their loving and compassionate care and to Jean’s devoted friends and neighbors who were always there for her. She loved her family and was there for every activity, function, celebration, or need.

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the charity of your choice.