Jean Claire (Burford) Cambridge

Former Hastings, Nebraska resident Jean C. Cambridge passed away on Wednesday, January 14, 2026 in Omaha, Nebraska at the age of 94. Jean was the only child born to Robert L. and Camilla (Christensen) Burford on November 18, 1931 in Omaha, Nebraska. She grew up in Omaha and graduated from Central High School and the University of Nebraska with a teaching degree. In 1953, Jean married William (Bill) G. Cambridge. Following his law school graduation they lived in Tacoma Washington where he served two years in the United States Army. They then returned to Nebraska in 1957 and made Hastings their home for 31 years with Jean being a homemaker, community member and Bill practicing law and serving as district judge in the Tenth Judicial District. It was in Hastings they made many life long friends. After an appointment and confirmation for the United States District Court for the District of Nebraska in 1988, Omaha became their home where they reconnected with many friends from their grade school through college years. While living in both Hastings and Omaha, Jean enjoyed being involved in community activities, Presbyterian Church, Alpha Phi Sorority, P.E.O. Chapter, YWCA and numerous Book and Bridge clubs.

Jean was preceded in death by her parents; husband (2004); and son in law, Richard (2023). She is survived by daughters, Elisa Cambridge of Prairie Village, KS; Karen Portwood of Hastings, NE; grandchildren, William (Sierra) Poulson of Leawood, KS, Audrey (Cody) Petersen of West DesMoines, IA, and Thomas Portwood of Hastings, NE; great grandchildren, Liam, Eleanor, Evelyn, Oliver and Amelia.

“In the end, it’s not the years in your life that count. It’s the life in your years.” ~ Abraham Lincoln

Memorials may be given to Hastings Community Foundation 620 W. 2nd St. STE 102 Hastings, NE. 68901 or Presbyterian Church of the Cross 1517 S. 114th St. Omaha, NE. 68144

A visitation will be held January 23, 2026, from 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm. at Westlawn-Hillcrest Funeral Home.