Jeannette Louise Clendenny, 92, passed away at 1:58 p.m., Sunday, April 6, 2025, at Jersey Community Hospital in Jerseyville, Illinois.
She was born on June 13, 1932, in Moline, Illinois, one of three children born to the late William C. and Violet (Malcolm) Patterson. Jeannette was raised in Moline and was a proud graduate of Moline High School. With a deep passion for education, she continued her studies at Western Illinois University in Macomb, where she earned her Bachelor of Science in Education.
While at Western, she met the love of her life, Gary Allen Clendenny. They were married on August 21, 1955, in Moline and spent many wonderful years together before Gary’s passing on January 16, 2013. The couple began their married life in the Chicago suburbs, where Jeannette began her teaching career at Mt. Carroll High School, followed by roles at VIT High School in Table Grove, East Leyden High School in Franklin Park, and Mt. Prospect High School in Mt. Prospect.
After a brief period living in Arizona, they made their permanent home in Jerseyville in 1967. Jeannette continued her dedication to education by serving as a substitute teacher at Jersey Community High School. She touched the lives of countless students and was always passionate about the value of learning.
Jeannette and Gary were active members of the Jerseyville community. They were longtime members of First United Methodist Church, where Jeannette’s faith and fellowship were central to her life. Together, they were members of Westlake Country Club, enjoying both golf and the friendships they made. Jeannette also taught swimming lessons at the club, sharing her talents with generations of children. She was involved with the Jersey County Historical Society and remained deeply connected to her heritage through her work with the Dr. Silas Hamilton Chapter of the National Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution. Her work with the DAR's Decedent’s Project and various officer roles demonstrated her passion for preserving history and honoring those who came before.
She also gave her time and talents to her local government, serving for a time on the City of Jerseyville Zoning Board of Appeals.
Jeannette leaves behind her beloved son, Jay Clendenny of St. Louis, Missouri, as well as numerous nieces and nephews who will remember her strength, intellect, and grace.
In addition to her parents and her husband, she was preceded in death by her brothers, Malcolm Patterson and David Patterson.
Visitation will be held from 12 p.m. until time of funeral services at 2 p.m., Saturday, April 12, 2025, at First United Methodist Church in Jerseyville.
Burial will take place at Crescent Heights Cemetery in Pleasant Hill on Monday, April 14, 2025. A procession will depart from Crawford Funeral Home in Jerseyville at 9 a.m.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to First United Methodist Church in Jerseyville, Jerseyville Public Library, or the Jersey Community Hospital Foundation.
Crawford Funeral Home in Jerseyville has been entrusted with arrangements.
Memories and condolences may be shared at www.crawfordfunerals.com.
