UPDATE: The community is mourning the loss of Jean Turle, who passed away peacefully at the age of 88 on December 2, 2025, in Gardnerville, Nevada. Born on November 25, 1937, in Bournemouth, England, Jean’s life was a remarkable journey filled with compassion, adventure, and a deep commitment to her family and community.
In 1963, Jean took a brave step, moving from England to the United States with her husband, Michael Turle, and their son, Steve. They arrived in New York and traveled cross-country by train to Reno, Nevada, marking the beginning of a vibrant new chapter. Embracing her new life, Jean maintained strong ties to her English roots while becoming an integral part of her American community.
Jean dedicated her professional life to education, serving for many years with the Lake Tahoe Unified School District. She began as an instructional aide and transitioned into special education, where her passion for nurturing children of all ages and abilities shone brightly. Her warmth and patience made a lasting impact on both students and colleagues, culminating in her retirement in 1997.
Outside of her career, Jean found joy in life’s simple pleasures. An avid hiker, she loved exploring the beauty of nature and often spent her evenings playing Mexican Train with family and friends, laughter echoing around the table. A devoted fan of the San Francisco Giants, she rarely missed a game, showcasing her spirited personality.
In 2004, Jean and Michael embraced the snowbird lifestyle, purchasing a park model home in Apache Junction, Arizona. There, they formed close friendships and created cherished memories under the warm desert sun. Travel also brought Jean immense joy, as she frequently returned to England to visit family and explored destinations across the Pacific Northwest and Canada. A highlight was a cruise to Alaska in celebration of their 25th wedding anniversary.
Jean was a devoted mother to her children, Stephen (Lori), Gregory (Samantha), and Victoria (Susan), taking immense pride in her grandchildren, Tucker, Ray, and Taylor. Her legacy of kindness, dedication, and quiet strength will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.
Jean was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Michael Turle, whose memory she cherished throughout her life. As the community reflects on her impact, friends and family are encouraged to plant trees in her memory.
Jean’s story is one of love, commitment, and the profound effects one person can have on the lives of others. Her passing is a significant loss, and her memory will bring comfort to all who loved her.
