She was born on July 3, 1962, in Moorhead, North Dakota, to the late Gary and Barbara (Johnson) Gillie. Being born so close to our nation’s birthday fit perfectly with Jeanette’s life work, as if it were predestined, she would serve her country proudly. She began her military career serving with the US Navy for 13 years, stationed in Norfolk, Virginia. Jeanette served on the USS Emory S. Land and was one of the first women to serve as a torpedoman’s mate. She then joined the US Air Force and was stationed in Minneapolis, Minnesota, for most of her career. Jeanette enjoyed doing “drop zones” and retired as an E6 Technical Sergeant.
The love of water followed her long after her military career and she enjoyed being at Pleasant Hill, boating and riding the golf cart. Being near the water was her peaceful place. Jeanette loved camping and getting together with friends and family around a campfire. Baking and cooking were favorite activities she enjoyed sharing with others. She had a special place reserved in her heart for animals and her dog, Reese, had the top spot. Jeanette enjoyed photography and creating memories to enjoy and reminisce was her passion.
Jeanette is survived by her husband, Ron Beiwinkler whom she married in 2014 but had shared 24 years together; three children, Isaac Harp, Carly (Richard) Fraley, and Alexis (Tyler) Hills; one grandchild, Adeline Hills; a brother, Mike (Shelli) Gillie; two sisters, Cherie Gillie and Monika (Steve) Long; two nieces, Kirsten and Kaitlyn; and an aunt, Carol Gillie-Ustipak.
A celebration of Jeanette’s life will be held at a future date. If so desired, memorial contributions may be made to the Morrow County Dog Shelter, PO Box 233, Mount Gilead, Ohio 43338.
Wappner Funeral Directors and Crematory-Ontario is honored to serve the family.
