Jean DeFrain, 66, passed away at home in Odessa, Florida on October 4, 2024 under hospice care on the feast day of St. Francis of Assisi. She was born and raised in Madison, Wisconsin and later moved to Miami before moving to the Tampa Bay area. One of Jean’s favorite things about living in Florida was enjoying year-round warm weather while spending time at the beach and taking boat rides on the lake near her home.
Jean was raised Catholic, and while living in Tarpon Springs, became a member of St. Ignatius Catholic Church, serving for many years as a Eucharistic Minister and Sacristan, supporting their Life Teen program, and attending two church pilgrimage trips. Just as she shared her time and talents with the St. Ignatius parish, she received a gift in return while participating in a Diocesan Choice singles group where she met and fell in love with her husband, Alan. She was fortunate to meet many of her friends through her involvement with the Church as well.
Jean graduated from USF with a Bachelor’s degree in technical writing. She also studied natural health and received a Certified Natural Health Professional (CNHP) certificate.
Jean enjoyed summer visits with her nieces and nephews from both near and far. She came from a competitive, card-playing family and won nearly every game of Chinese checkers she played. She was a fantastic cook, famous for her Shepherd’s pie and pancakes, which could only be served with real maple syrup. Jean loved animals and spoiled many beloved cats and dogs over her lifetime. Her other passions included traveling with her husband, wine tasting, tai chi, natural health, organic foods, fashion, crafts, and interior design.
Jean is survived by her husband of 33 years, G. Alan DeFrain, her mother, Rozellan Goldsworthy, one sister Cindy Lou Who and three brothers Brian (Julie), Dean (Cindy) and Paul (Cheryl) Goldsworthy; three nieces Lauren, Lisa and Alex and three nephews Carter, Jason and Hubert and one grand-niece Eris, and many dear friends. Her family asks that you donate to EWTN (Eternal Word Television Network) in lieu of flowers.
Jean’s funeral mass will take place at St. Ignatius of Antioch Catholic Church in Tarpon Springs on November 29 at 11:30 am. Interment will be at Honey Creek Woodlands in Conyers, GA, on January 18, 2025 at 1 pm.
St. Ignatius of Antioch Catholic Church
Susan Rawlston
November 6, 2024, 5:29 pm
What a wonderful person she sounds like. I can see why you were so close. My heart goes out especially to Cindy Lou, Alex, and Hubert, and all her family and friends.