Marilyn Jean Reazer

Born on November 2, 1940, in Cleveland, Ohio, Jean grew up in a close knit family that instilled in her a lifelong passion for learning and an enthusiasm for embracing new adventures. On August 6, 1960, she married George Reazer III, and last summer they joyfully celebrated their 65th wedding anniversary.

Jean’s greatest love was her family. She loved to stay busy and poured her energy into creating meaningful moments for the people she cherished most. She planned adventurous vacations, hosted backyard bonfires with s’mores, organized scavenger hunts, and threw Halloween and Christmas caroling parties for the neighborhood children. She treasured beach trips with her children and grandchildren and delighted in reading to her great grandchildren over Zoom. Her famous coffee cake became a beloved holiday tradition, passed down through the younger generations.

While raising her two children, Jean earned a bachelor’s degree in chemistry and worked from home as a technical writer. Her remarkable energy was matched by an adventurous spirit. In her late thirties, she rekindled a passion that began at age 15—flying. She earned her pilot’s license and enjoyed piloting her Cessna, even giving her son—now a professional pilot—his early flying lessons.

Around that same time, Jean began a successful career at Wright Patterson Air Force Base. She started as a secretary but soon moved into a technical role studying the effects of lightning on aircraft. Each summer, she and the other “Lightning Looneys” on her research team traveled to Florida, where they flew into storm systems to gather lightning strike data.

Jean was also an avid gardener who tended her extensive flowerbeds and vegetable patches with diligence and joy. Her backyard became a sanctuary for birds and squirrels. She loved peaceful moments on the patio, enjoying the flowers, plants, and wildlife while reading a good book.

Books were one of Jean’s deepest passions. A voracious reader, she delighted in sharing her love of stories with others. One of her favorite childhood memories was her first trip to the library, where she discovered—with amazement and joy—a world of books stretching as far as she could see. Saturday morning library visits became a cherished ritual with her own children, and evenings were often spent reading stories or poetry together. She also volunteered in literacy programs for both children and adults, believing wholeheartedly in the joy of reading and its power to transform lives.

And last, but certainly not least, all who knew Jean knew of her lifelong love of dogs. Throughout their marriage, she and George were never without a dog or two in their home. Strays, rescues, and pups in need of a new place were always welcomed—and treated like royalty. Most recently, their beloved dog Rusty has been a source of tremendous comfort, companionship, and unconditional love for both Jean and George.

Jean is survived by her husband, George; her daughter Patricia Little and husband, Alan; her son, George Reazer IV, and his partner, Michele; her grandchildren Christin, Joshua, Matthew, Ashley, and Christopher and their spouses; and her five great grandchildren. She is also survived by her three brothers, Donald, Robert, and John Sambrook, their wives, and many nieces and nephews.

Jean lived her life with purpose, curiosity, and an enthusiasm for embracing new experiences. Her energy, optimism, and generous spirit inspired everyone who knew her. Her family and friends will forever treasure the memories of the love she shared so freely and the example she set by living life fully and wholeheartedly.

Funeral Services are 4pm Friday April 17, 2026 at Anderson Funeral Home 40 N Main St Springboro, OH 45066 with Celebrant Dan Flory officiating. Visitation will be Friday from 2pm to 4pm at the funeral home.

Memorial donations may be made to Parkinson’s Foundation or the Animal Friends Humane Society in Jean's memory.