Helen Jean Bokelman, 78, of Clarksburg passed away unexpectedly on May 22, 2019. She was born on March 4, 1941, in Decatur County, the daughter of Carlos (Jack) and Mildred Kincaid Hite. On July 26, 1964, she married Ronald Eugene Bokelman at the First Presbyterian Church in Columbus, Indiana. He preceded her in death on June 22, 2014. Jeanne was a graduate of Clarksburg High School and received her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees from Ball State University. Jeanne retired from North Decatur Elementary School after more than 42 years of teaching in the county. Throughout her career she taught music, business, and third grade. She loved teaching; playing the piano; and spending time with friends and family, especially her grandchildren. She was a member of Springhill Presbyterian Church, serving as a past organist and pianist. Jeanne was also involved with Women Educators, Delta Theta Pi, Indiana Retired Teachers Association, Delta Kappa Gamma, and Tri Kappa.
Survivors include her daughter, Carole (Mike) Dierckman, son, Steve (Sally) Bokelman, grandchildren: Dustin and Katelyn Bokelman. She was preceded in death by her husband and parents.
A visitation for family and friends will be held Saturday, May 25 from 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm at Gilliland-Howe Funeral Home. Funeral services will be at 2:00 pm Sunday, May 26, 2019, at Gilliland Howe Funeral Home; Rev. Shannon Burford will be officiating. Burial will follow at the Springhill Presbyterian Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the Clarksburg Volunteer Fire Department, Decatur County Special Olympics, or to the Springhill Presbyterian Church.
