Jean Naumovich

The world became a lesser place this week. And yet, it’s been left innumerable times the better. Over the course of a lifetime that spanned almost a century, Jean Naumovich showed us all how to live a life to its fullest. Her devotion, talents, and boundless love will serve as an inspiration to generations everlasting.

The daughter of Andy and Frances, and later the sister of Carol, Jean Corcoran was born in Springfield on August 27, 1930. A lifetime resident of the city’s north end, she embarked upon a path of adventure and accomplishment that traditionally would require traveling to far-flung places and exploring parts unknown. But Jean did it all by envisioning, then creating, a home unlike any other.

Jean married Leonard Naumovich in the spring of 1950. Together, they formed a family that began with Mary in 1952. They didn’t finish until Laura came around 20 years later. In between came Barbie, Joanie, Patty, Lenny, Jimmy, Carol, Danny, and Nancy. This was the foundation of their legacy.

Raised in an era of the homemaker, Jean elevated the role to a level incomparable in any profession. A master in the kitchen, her Monday night meatloaf and Tuesday night spaghetti and meatballs would have been weekend specials on any other menu. The best part of any birthday was getting to pick what mom would make for dinner and dessert.

As the mother of seven daughters, she single-handedly took on the wedding industry by sewing the bridal gowns and bridesmaid dresses herself. Jean’s prowess with needle and thread extended into other fashions, from school uniforms to First Communion dresses and suits. Her flannel pajama pants were as popular with her children and grandchildren as anything that L.L. Bean has ever offered.

Jean was a giver. A tireless provider of not just the necessities, but the stuff that turns individuals into families, factions into societies. Guiding ten children through the trials and tribulations of life, she served as counselor, confidant and role model. Her guiding philosophy was that she loved all of her children equally, but in any given moment, would devote her care to the one who needed her most.

As her family grew, so did Jean’s capacity for love, ten children begot 32 grandchildren, who learned the ways of family at the Naumo Party Palace. And then came the great grandchildren, 35 and counting. They have all been shaped and touched by knowing her affection. The newest of the brood, Brady Leonard, joined the family just one day before Jean departed. The circle of life, they call it. Jean, along with Len, will always be the center that makes that circle perfect.

But Jean’s life was far from just domestic. As a young lady, her incredible voice entertained opera-goers in St. Louis. She then went on to devote her musical gifts to those seeking peace and meaning. Jean sang and played organ in the St. Aloysius choir for many years, while also comforting mourners with her music at Kirlin-Egan Funeral Home.

Later in life, Jean delved into a world of books and opened up her mind to new ideas. She was devout in her beliefs, but respected those of others. There was no capacity in her heart for hate and division, just boundless, joy-filled love.

Had she had other ambitions, Jean might have become an opera star or noted scholar. Despite her humility, however, celebrity did not escape her. Fame was found on the dance floor. At family weddings, right up until her 95th year, she would take center stage, joined by her circle of loved ones and admirers. As the deejay cued up the ABBA, she would become the Dancing Queen and the life of the celebration.

When it came to being a wife, a mother, a grandma, and friend, few have been Jean’s equal and none have done it better. The Dancing Queen gave us all the time of our lives.

Jean was preceded in death by her husband, Len, in 2019. She is survived by her children, Mary (Tom) Mann, Barb (John) Monark, Joan (companion, Bill Alexander) Naumovich, Patricia (Esteban) Sanchez, Len (Cindy) Naumovich, Jim (Carolyn) Naumovich, Carol (Dan) Durham, Dan (Tammy) Naumovich, Nancy (Rob) Kerr, and Laura (Rick) Soehnlin; along with her brother-in-law, Joe Naumovich. And all of those grandchildren and great grandchildren, far too many to mention by name.

Visitation: Family will receive friends from 4:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m. on Friday, May 8, 2026, at Butler Funeral Home- Springfield, 900 S. 6th St., Springfield.

Mass of Christian Burial: 9:00 a.m. on Saturday, May 9, 2026, at St. Aloysius Catholic Church, 2000 E. Sangamon Ave., Springfield.

Burial will follow at Calvary Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Martin de Porres, PO Box 2571, Springfield IL 62708.

Please visit butlerspringfield.com to offer your condolences.