Jean Allison Osterling

January 18, 1945 – August 6, 2025

With heavy hearts and profound love, we announce the passing of Jean Allison Osterling, who left this world peacefully on August 6, 2025, in Reston, Virginia, surrounded by her beloved family. She was 80 years old.

Jean was a radiant light in the lives of so many—a devoted mother, adoring grandmother and great-grandmother, loyal friend, and unforgettable soul who gave her love unconditionally. Her legacy is not written in grand achievements or accolades, but in the memories she wove into the hearts of those around her—memories filled with laughter, warmth, sacrifice, and deep, abiding love.

Born on January 18, 1945, in Washington, D.C., Jean was the treasured daughter of William Paul Allison and Beatrice Rimel. She graduated from McLean High School in 1962 and later built a meaningful career in public service. Her time with the Department of Agriculture’s Food and Nutrition Services reflected her quiet dedication to helping others. She also worked for the Airline Tariff Publishing Company before retiring, always bringing kindness, diligence, and humor to every role she held.

But Jean’s greatest calling—her life’s true masterpiece—was her family. She was the heart and soul of every gathering, every celebration, and every quiet moment in between. She was the deeply loving and proud mother of four children: John A. Hannold, Terri L. Hannold, Carmen L. Wise (Brian), and Alberto P. Osterling (Nadya). Her love extended endlessly to her grandchildren—John Paul Hannold, Jessica Martelli, Riley Wise, Reagan Wise, Thomas P. Wise, Sofia Wainwright, and Nicolas Osterling—and her great-grandchildren: Hailey Hannold, John Vincent Hannold, Charlie Rae Martelli, and Arlo Banks Martelli.

Jean’s journey through life included two marriages: first to John Hannold, with whom she welcomed her first two children, and then to her beloved husband of 25 years, Alberto M. Osterling, with whom she completed their loving family. Later in life, Jean was blessed with 18 beautiful years alongside her loving partner, Ronald Best, whose companionship brought her joy, comfort, and a deep sense of peace until his passing.

Jean lived life with a sense of humor that sparkled and a heart that always had room for more. She had a rare gift for making people feel instantly loved—often with a witty nickname, a silly voice, or her infamous “chicken” antics that became a family tradition. Her home was filled with laughter, stories, snacks, and football cheers, especially during Washington Redskins (now Commanders) games—where her enthusiasm was unmatched, often heard before seen.

Her passions were simple but rich: a good Stephen King novel, a beloved movie (from Mama Mia! to The Lost Boys), long chats over coffee or cocktails, spontaneous travels, and above all, quality time with those she loved most. Jean never missed a holiday. Her presence radiated warmth and endless giving, making every occasion feel special.

She was deeply committed to her community as well. Alongside her husband Al, Jean was a proud member of the Optimist International in the 1980s and 1990s, contributing time and energy to youth and service projects throughout Chantilly, Virginia.

Jean was preceded in death by her parents, William and Beatrice, and her dear sister Mollye Furnell. While we grieve the loss of her physical presence, we hold tightly to the countless memories she gave us—and the love she left behind that will never fade.

Jean’s life was a beautiful tapestry of devotion, joy, and resilience. She taught us how to love fiercely, laugh freely, and give generously. Her memory will live on in every warm hug, every inside joke, every Redskins cheer, and every moment we choose kindness over convenience. She was truly one of a kind—and our lives are forever better because we were loved by her.

A celebration of Jean’s life will be held on Monday, August 11, 2025, at 3:00 PM at the Demaine Life Celebration Center of Loudoun County, 45511 E Severn Way, Sterling, VA. She will be laid to rest on August 23, 2025, at Florida Memorial Gardens in Rockledge, Florida.