Jean Cameron Sankey

Cary, NC — Jean Jameson Cameron Sankey passed away on November 19, 2025. Born in November 1944 in Cleveland, Ohio, she was the only child of George and Lucia Cameron. Jean was a proud graduate of Laurel School, Duke University, and the University of Missouri, where she earned BA and MA degrees in botany.

A devoted student of her Scottish and Southern heritage, Jean was also a lifelong Cleveland Indians fan. She was fiercely loyal to her family and friends, and she lived her life grounded firmly in her principles.

Jean married Roger Sankey in 1968, and together they chose a traditional one-income family life that allowed her to devote herself fully to raising their children and to an extensive volunteer career. For 35 years she served organizations including the Junior League of Columbus, Franklin Park Conservatory, the Kelton House Museum, the Topiary Park, and First Congregational Church.

After relocating to North Carolina, Jean and Roger discovered the joy of dog rescue through Carolina Basset Hound Rescue, where she contributed significantly as a fundraiser through grant writing and her beloved Basset Boutique.

Jean is survived by her husband of 57 years, Roger; her son, Roger Jr., M.Div.; her daughter, Elizabeth, DVM, and husband Ray; her grandchildren Ann Cameron & Charlie; along with numerous cousins.

If desired, memorial contributions may be made to the Kelton House Museum, 586 E. Town St., Columbus, OH 43215. Funeral services will be held on December 6, 2025 at 1pm at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 101 N Union St., Petersburg, VA, with burial to follow in Blandford Cemetery.