Obituary of Jean Edwards

Jean Edwards Obituary Surrounded by her son James and her family, Jean (Driesse) Edwards of Oakland NJ, daughter, wife, mother, sister, and friend to many began her heavenly journey on Monday, February 15, 2021 at the age of 70 after a six year struggle with dementia. Jean was born on October 10, 1950 to Jack and Mary Lou Driesse. Jean was the eldest of 8 children and will be lovingly remembered by them all: Nancy (Steve) Dickens, Jackie (deceased 1956), John (Debbie), Anne (Ron) Villanova, Judy (Michael) Daly, Carol (Tom Polizzi) and David (Stacey). Jean will be forever remembered by her son James Edwards. She was preceded in death by both her parents, her husband, James D. Edwards and her son John D. Edwards. She will also be lovingly remembered by her numerous nieces, nephews, extended family and dear friends. She was a graduate of St. Luke’s High School (1968) and William Paterson College (1972). She spent her career nurturing and guiding pre-school children at Kradle 2 Kindergarten where she was affectionally known to all as Miss Jean. In her spare time she also worked as a part-time sales associate at Macy’s. A highlight of her career was her participation in the annual Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade where many family members joined her along the parade route as well. She expanded her creativity for many years by participating in the annual FLOW Follies event at Indian Hills High School. Never one to sit still she was happiest going on any new adventures with her family, especially Disney World. Her famous line was “I’m only one” as she hopped in the car. An avid pet lover who would care for any animal at her doorstep, she also volunteered at the St. Mary’s Food Pantry until her illness took over. She enjoyed walks and even though her ability to talk lessened as her disease progressed, she was still able to sing all her favorite church hymns. Family and friends may visit from 4:00 – 7:00 pm on Thursday, February 25, 2021 at the Oakland Memorial Home, 330 Ramapo Valley Road, Oakland, NJ. Following COVID restrictions; masks are required. https://oaklandmemorial.com/ A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated in memory of Jean on Friday, February 26, 2021 at 10:30 am at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, 31 Pompton Avenue, Pompton Lakes, NJ. Following COVID restrictions; masks are required. In lieu of flowers please consider making a donation in Jean’s memory to the St Mary’s Food Pantry, https://stmarys-pompton.org/food-pantry, or Ramapo Animal Shelter https://rbari.org/donate/donate.html