Jean Murdock Makarevich

In the waning hours of May 1, 2025, Jean (Murdock) Makarevich, after a lingering illness, passed gently into the arms of our Lord. She passed away peacefully at home in Jonesboro, Georgia, with her son Jonathan and her faithful, angelic caregiver Roxanne at her side. Her beloved husband, Bob, was in the hospital at the time, unable to see her home to where the angels dwell. No more suffering, no more pain. Jean was born in New Castle, Pennsylvania, on November 22, 1945, to Mary Young Murdock and John Archibald Murdock, the second of four children. She was preceded in death by her brothers, John Jr. and Neal. Surviving her is a younger sister, Deborah Ann Garano of Grove City, Pennsylvania. She is also survived by her husband, Bob, and their two sons: Jonathan Ian of Atlanta, and Joshua Thad, who resides in Doha, Qatar, with his wife Ashley and their three children, Paxton, Aeliana, and Mikah. Jean is additionally survived by twenty-six nieces and nephews, along with sisters-in-law Patty and Sally, and brothers-in-law Paul, Peter, and William. Jean and Bob were joined in a vow of inseparable marriage on October 22, 1977. Bob, a U.S. Army officer, came home on leave from South Korea for their military wedding ceremony. Jean later joined him in Korea, where they lived for three years. As a young girl, Jean cherished life on the family dairy farm in Grove City, surrounded by animals and the beauty of the outdoors. Her education began in a one-room schoolhouse in Wolf Creek Township, and she graduated from Grove City High School in 1963. With a passion for learning and teaching, she earned a degree in education from Slippery Rock University in 1967. Jean began her teaching career in New Castle public schools (1967–1977), then taught at Department of Defense schools in Korea, and later in the Clayton County, Georgia, school system until her retirement in 2012. She was especially devoted to teaching in underserved communities, always seeking opportunities to serve children in need. Jean’s compassion and faith guided her throughout her life. She participated in mission work in South America, Africa, Israel, and even at a blind orphanage in Korea. Her walk with Jesus began in the Christian and Missionary Alliance Churches of Grove City and New Castle. She remained active in military ministries in Korea, Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri, and Fort McPherson, Georgia. Her most recent church home was Community Bible Church in Stockbridge, Georgia. Jean’s generous spirit was evident in everything she did—from leading school and church programs to offering comfort and guidance to those around her. She was a proud Army officer’s wife, serving alongside her husband with dignity and deep love for her country. Though her illness curtailed her ability to travel and visit loved ones, she faced it with grace and courage. Bob stood by her side through every moment, as he had promised, 47 years together. Jean lived a rich, wholesome, and caring life. Her love touched many. There is no more pain, no more sorrow—only peace. She now belongs to Heaven, where God has prepared a place for her. We miss her deeply, but she will never be forgotten. A memorial service will be held at a later date, allowing family and friends to gather in remembrance. The family extends heartfelt thanks to Guiding Light Hospice for their exceptional care and to Ford-Stewart Funeral Home for their compassion and support.

Tributes

Jean Murdock Makarevich

November 22, 1945 - May 1, 2025