Jean Arthur Hoey, 84, of Fairfield, CT, passed away peacefully on November 15, 2024.

Jean is survived by her children, Kathy Ragland (John) and Patrick (Alison); and her grandchildren, Jordan, Camryn, Abigail, Mitchell, and Mackenzie. She was predeceased by her beloved husband of 36 years, Pat Hoey.

Born in Washington, NC, to Fred and Lucille Arthur, Jean spent her early years in Washington, NC. She attended The Women's College at the University of North Carolina, Greenville, and later earned her Master's in Special Education from Fairfield University.

Jean began her teaching career in Virginia Beach, VA, where she met Pat, who was serving in the U.S. Navy. They married in 1963 and moved to New Jersey, where Jean continued teaching. The family later settled in Fairfield, where Jean lived for over 52 years. Pat's job took them to San Francisco in 1982, sparking a love for travel that led them to explore the Far East, South America, and South Africa, where they enjoyed numerous safaris.

Jean dedicated 22 years to teaching special education in the Fairfield Public Schools, where she was known for her exceptional ability to connect with children with special needs. In her leisure time, she enjoyed playing golf and bridge with friends at Brooklawn Country Club.

After Pat's passing in 2000, Jean embraced an independent life, spending winters in Naples, FL, where she made many friends and fully enjoyed her retirement.

Known as 'Grandmommie' to her five grandchildren, Jean cherished teaching them to read, bake, knit, and play cards, especially perfecting the riffle shuffle. She was an avid NY Times crossword puzzle enthusiast, never missing a Sunday puzzle. Jean was a dedicated presence at her grandchildren's activities and family gatherings.

Jean was a loyal friend, always making an effort to stay connected with those she loved. She will be deeply missed by her family and friends. Go Tarheels!

Funeral services will be held at Christ & Holy Trinity Church, 75 Church Lane, Westport, on Thursday, November 21, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. Interment will be private. Visitation will be on Wednesday, November 20, 2024, from 4-7 p.m. at Redgate Hennessy Funeral Home, Main Street and Gorham Place, Trumbull, CT.

In honor of her late husband, donations may be made in Jean's memory to the American Brain Tumor Association ((https://www.abta.org/), the Salvation Army (https://www.salvationarmyusa.org/usn/ways-to-give/), or a charity of your choice. To send online condolences please visit www.redgatehennessy.com

American Brain Tumor Association
8550 W. Bryn Mawr Ave., Suite 550, Chicago IL 60631-3225
Web: https://www.abta.org

The Salvation Army U.S.A. Eastern Territory
440 West Nyack Road, West Nyack NY 10994
Web: http://www.salvationarmy.org