A. Jean Birkhead, 91, passed away on Sunday, October 6, 2024, at 1:09 pm at Courtyard Estates in Monmouth where she had been a resident for many years and received excellent care from a loving staff. Jean was born on November 22, 1932 in Viroqua, Wisconsin, and is the daughter of Kenneth and Audrey (Miller) Potts. Jean was raised in Viroqua, Wisconsin. She married Russell L. Birkhead on October 28, 1951, in Eureka, Illinois. They were married for 60 years before his passing in January, 2011. She and her husband owned and operated Culligan Soft Water company here in Monmouth for many years. While she lived in Monmouth, Jean was a member of the Kiwanis Club, Rotary Club, and the Women’s Club. She also served on the board for Habitat for Humanity. Jean loved to travel, root for the Cubs, and care for her many pets, but loved being with family most of all. Surviving her is her daughter, Lisa Mettler of Monmouth, four grandchildren: Robbie Hiett of Galesburg, Heather, Allison and Eric Hiett of Monmouth, and one great-grandchild. Also surviving Jean is one sister, Kay Hodel of Eureka, IL, one brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Roger and Rachel Birkhead of Viola, IL, and several nieces and nephews. She is preceded in death by her parents, husband Russell, one sister, Barbara Emerson, her sister-in-law, Dorothy Birkhead, two brothers-in-law, Lester and Edward Birkhead, and one niece, Tara Beeney.
A graveside funeral service is planned for Tuesday, October 22, 2024, at 10:30 am at the Viola Cemetery in Viola, Illinois. No viewing or visitation is currently planned, but memorial funds are being established for Courtyard Estates of Monmouth, Illinois and Hospice Compassus. Turnbull Funeral Home in Monmouth is in charge of her care. To leave your remembrance or for more information, please visit www.turnbullfuneralhomes.com
