Jean A. McQuade, 73, originally of Saginaw, Michigan died February 20th, 2024 at Dimondale Nursing Home. Jean was known for her sneaky wit and giving heart. Her perseverance was legendary, driven by the deep love she held for those around her.

Jean, a triplet, was born on April 11, 1950 to Victor and Esther McQuade (Anaman) in Saginaw, Michigan. Being a triplet, landed her in local newspapers and in Gerber News. She graduated in 68' from Arthur Hill High School and was a member of the National Honor Society. Jean attended night school and was the first in her family to graduate from college, earning a diploma from the Saginaw Business Institute in Data Controlling. Jean went on to work as a secretary and was an active member at Faith Lutheran Church. She spent her time gardening, reading/watching mysteries, looking for unique finds in garage sales, crafting and always made sure to make homemade candy for school parties. Although she was known to occasionally wear a cowboy hat, her fanhood towards Rod Stewart was like none other.

Jean's greatest happiness came from the shared moments in the living room of her mother's home. The women in her family would gather to drink instant coffee, create/sew, watch soap operas/mysteries and share stories from their lives. Jean was always the one that would bring laughter by making some off the cuff comment. As her mother aged, Jean bought a home around the corner from her and would walk over everyday so they could spend their days together.

Jean loved deeply, and there is nothing more that she loved than her grandchildren. She delighted in making them gifts for every holiday and hearing their stories about their day. She  easily and affectionately gained the nickname, "Nana." Her "family" at Sunnyside called her "Momma Bear." Jean built numerous connections thru community by donating her time and creativity to events at Friends for Recovery, including the much loved Bingo games. This place and her relationships there were very special to Jean. No matter where she went, Jean created communities with unflinching acceptance for all.

Jean is survived by: her children, Jennifer "Jenny" Soria (Thomas) and Matthew Stroble; grandchildren, Diego and Aster; siblings, Joan Casterline (Greg), John McQuade (Lori), Charles Long (Dorothy), and Faye Dixon (Larry); and friends, Kathy Bender, Karen Butler and Maureen Kotenko. She was preceded in death by: both her parents; her brother, Larry; her special friend, Ellie Lake; and her beloved dog, Molly.

The family would like to give a special note of gratitude to the ACT Team (SCCMHA) and TTI Teams for empowering Jean to live a self-directed life alongside/with her neurodivergence and for all their loving support over the years. In lieu of ceremony and flowers, donations can be made in Jean's honor to help carry on her community work, to:

Friends for Recovery, Inc,
Attn: Deb Sharp
2720 W. Genesee Avenue
Saginaw, MI 48602

"My heart will always know your name…"

There will be no services for Ms. McQuade at this time.