Lancaster – Jean M. Bean passed away peacefully in her home in the early morning hours of Monday, January 13, 2025, after a brief decline in health; she was 77 years old.
Jean was raised in Wrentham, one of seven children to the late Francis J. and Helen M. (Gorman) McMorrow.
She was a 1965 graduate of King Phillip Regional H.S. prior to earning BS in Education and subsequently, her M.Ed in Special Education at Fitchburg State College. It was here, during a new student mixer, that Jean met fellow FSC student, Dennis C. Bean. Jean and Dennis soon married and began a wonderful 56-year journey together. They resided for a short time in Marlborough and Hudson prior to building their current home of 40 years in Lancaster.
Jean began employment as a special education teacher within the Maynard Public School system. She then transferred to Algonquin Regional H.S. where she continued to teach special education prior to accepting the role of Special Education Administrator. In the later years, Jean effectively served as the Director of Student Support Services for the Northborough – Southborough Regional School District. After retirement, Jean would continue consulting work and student advocacy for school districts across the Commonwealth.
During her own time, Jean looked forward to reading and socializing with fellow book club members. With an optimistic outlook and ever-encouraging personality, strangers soon became friends. She could easily find the good in everyone. Hosting extended family and friends on holidays brought pleasure to Jean. She looked forward to a houseful every Thanksgiving and Memorial Day and any other day which allowed those she loved to be close by.
In addition to her husband Dennis, Jean leaves two daughters, Gretchen Bean of Northborough and Amanda Scoville (Michael) of Boston; grandchildren Claire and Paul Wikander (and their father Peter), and Llewyn and Agatha Scoville; five siblings, Francis McMorrow, Janet Barber (Keith), Nancy Gulino, James McMorrow (Jeanne) and Mary Ellin (Steven). She also leaves many nieces and nephews who she treated as her own, and countless students who benefited from her devoted advocacy. Preceding Jean in death are her brother Paul McMorrow, sisters-in-law Lynne McMorrow and Lucille Cogswell, and brother-in-law John Gulino.
Calling hours will be held 3- 6pm on Thursday, January 16th, at Hays Funeral Home, 56 Main Street, Northborough and again 9:30-10:15 am on Friday, January 17th. A Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 11am at Saint Rose of Lima Parish, 244 W. Main Street, Northborough. Jean will be laid to rest in Howard Street Cemetery, Northborough.
Jean’s family suggest memorial contributions be directed towards The Arc of Massachusetts, 217 South Street, Waltham, MA 02453 ([email protected]).