Thelma Jean Scannell

Thelma Jean Scannell, affectionately known to everyone as Jean, age 101, formerly of Gahanna, passed away on Wednesday, August 5, 2026, at Columbus Healthcare Center, where she made her home for the last three years.

She leaves behind a lifetime of memories, love, laughter, and stories that will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.

Jean was a truly special woman whose life spanned more than a century. Throughout her 101 years, she experienced a changing world while remaining a steady and loving presence to her family and friends. She had a heart that touched many lives, and those who knew Jean will always remember her for the kindness, warmth, and grace she carried throughout her life.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, William R. Scannell, who passed away in 2023. She was also preceded in death by her parents, John Sr. Bumgardner and Gertrude Alice Wood Bumgardner.

Family was an important part of Jean’s life. She is survived by her loving sister, Betty Pollack; her nieces and nephews, including June L. Packard of Columbus; Samantha J. Brooks of Reynoldsburg; Christine L. Crawford of Westerville; Teresa Dagstine; Lori Bumgardner; Sandra Malloy; William A. Austin of Reynoldsburg; Christopher R. Brooks of Reynoldsburg; Jerry Merz; Randy Bumgardner; and Robert Bumgardner, along with many other nieces and nephews, as well as many great-nieces and great-nephews and many beloved cousins, all of whom will carry her memory forward with love and pride.

Jean’s life was a gift to her family. She was a part of so many cherished memories, celebrations, conversations, and everyday moments that will now be treasured even more deeply. Her presence brought comfort and joy to those around her, and she will be profoundly missed.

At 101 years old, Jean leaves behind more than a long life—she leaves behind a legacy of love, strength, and enduring family bonds. The stories shared about her, the lessons she taught, the laughter she brought, and the love she gave will continue through every generation of her family.

Although saying goodbye is never easy, those who loved Jean can take comfort in knowing she lived an extraordinary life and left an unforgettable mark on everyone fortunate enough to know her. Her family will continue to honor her by remembering the good times, sharing her stories, and keeping her memory alive.

Jean may have left this world, but she will never leave the hearts of those who loved her.

Rest peacefully, Jean.

101 years of memories, 101 years of love, and a lifetime that will never be forgotten.

A Funeral Service will be held at 11:30 A.M. on Monday, August 17, 2026, in the Chapel Mausoleum at Forest Lawn Memorial Gardens, 5600 E. Broad Street. Entombment will follow.

Arrangements are entrusted to Schoedinger Northeast Chapel, 1051 E. Johnstown Road, Gahanna.