Jean Turner (née Pilkington) passed away peacefully at the age of 90 on March 16, 2025. Born in Helmshore, England to Frank and Edna (née Boardman) Pilkington, she is predeceased by her loving husband Geoff, her parents, and her siblings, Joe (Marjorie), Jessie (John), and Ruth (Hugh). She is survived by her children, and many cousins, nieces, and nephews.
An excellent student, Jean attended primary school in Helmshore, school in Haslingden, and grammar school. She grew up during World War II, and often fondly recalled Winston Churchill's inspiring radio addresses to the British people. While working as a civil servant in London, Jean met Geoff while ballroom dancing at London's Hammersmith Palais, and they married in 1959. In 1965, they, along with their two children, David and Angela, moved to Peterborough, where she raised the family, including the youngest, Matthew.
Always civic minded and generous with her time and resources, Jean volunteered with a number of organizations, including Birthright, Helping Hands, Five Counties Children's Centre, Grace Christian Academy, various church groups, and the Peterborough Minor Hockey Association. She was a skilled and creative quilter, loved gardening, played badminton, and enjoyed camping. Thoughtful and considerate, Jean cared for the many people with whom she crossed paths, including new immigrants, and those in need of a helping hand.
Jean will be greatly missed by her children, David, Angela, and Matthew, and her daughter-in-law, Dani. She lived a great life, and was well loved and respected by the so many people she befriended over the years. She had an especially loving relationship with her husband, Geoff, and they built a marriage that was exemplary in its strength, caring, and commitment.
The family thanks the staff at Hospice Peterborough and encourages donations there or to Five Counties Children's Centre. A celebration of life has already taken place.
