Jean Clare Whitman, 94, of New Bern, North Carolina passed away on December 17, 2025. Born on May 3, 1931, in New York City, New York, she was the daughter of the late Clare (Mitchell) and Jesse J. Powell.
Jean was proceeded in death by her parents and son Griffith. She is survived by her daughters Lee (David) Dalton and Carol Vieregge of New Bern, North Carolina and son Matthew (Veronica) Whitman of Paw Paw, Michigan; six grandchildren, Andrea Whitman, Stephanie Stone, Jesse Whitman, Sarah Vieregge, Mary Vieregge and Caroline Vieregge; 8 great grandchildren.
She was a real estate agent in St. Joseph, Michigan for several years.
Jean will be remembered for her calming smile, quick wit and extensive vocabulary. She enjoyed reading and gardening. Her specialty was growing orchids.
In lieu of flowers, the family encourages acts of kindness and service in her memory.
Cotten Funeral Home & Crematory is honored to serve the Whitman family.
