Jean Ellen (Lyon) Ransley was born on July 22, 1930 in Newark, New York. She passed away unexpectedly on Sept. 16, 2009 in Everett, Wash. as a result of complications following heart surgery.

Jean grew up in Wayne County, New York. She graduated from Brockport College, majoring in physical education. Beginning in the 1950s, she taught physical education at several Wayne County schools. She married Harold Ransley on Aug. 12, 1956 and moved to Sodus, New York where they lived for 47 years. While raising three children, she taught elementary school in Sodus for more than two decades. She was active in Girl Scouts, the Brantling Ski School, the Town Planning Board, and Sodus Bay Historical Society, as well as many other community activities.

Following her retirement in the early 1990s, she and Harold traveled extensively worldwide. She was very dedicated to her family throughout her life, particularly her children and grandchildren. In 2003, Jean and Harold moved to Whidbey Island to be closer to their two daughters and their families. Upon settling in Coupeville, Jean became very involved in local activities, particularly with her neighborhood and church.

Jean lead a very active life and enjoyed good health until her recent heart problems. She is survived by Harold, her husband of 53 years; her sister Betty (Lyon) Kraft; her daughter Keren (Ransley) LaCourse, husband Donald and sons Matthew and Benjamin; her daughter Lynda Ransley, husband Timothy Hohn and children Samuel, Bryce and Deah; her son Scott Ransley, wife Brenda and their children Ellen and Nathan; as well as a host of friends both far and near.

She was much loved, and will be missed by many.

A memorial service is scheduled for Oct. 17 at 1 p.m. at the United Methodist Church in Coupeville. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Jean’s name to: Ebey’s Landing Trust Board, 162 Cemetery Rd., Coupeville, WA 98239.