Jean R. (O’Brien) Rowan, age 83, of Taunton, formerly of Brockton, died peacefully at her home on May 16, 2023. Jean was the loving wife for 52 years of the late William J. Rowan, III. Born in Boston, she was the daughter of the late John and Mildred (Smith) O’Brien. Jean was raised in Roslindale, attended Girls’ Latin School and graduated from Roslindale High School. She was a graduate of Boston State College and received multiple post-graduate degrees while attending Boston College and Bridgewater State University. She had a passion for teaching and taught for over 30 years in the Boston and Brockton Public School systems.
Jean was involved with many volunteer groups including Our Lady of Lourdes Church. She was an honorary member and secretary of the Italian Women’s Club, a Doric Docent at the State House and was actively involved in the Brockton community, including a liaison for the Brockton School Committee, Summer Fest committee, and political campaign volunteer. She was an avid Boston sports fan, reader, and enjoyed crocheting. She looked forward to her winters in Cape Coral, FL and spending time with all of her friends.
Jean’s family was her pride and joy. She is survived by her four children William J. Rowan, IV and his wife Christine of Taunton, Matthew Rowan and his wife Kelly of Belmont, Christopher Rowan and his wife Laura of Old Chatham, NY and Maria Malenfant and her husband Shawn of South Easton as well as ten grandchildren: Madison, Kara, Will, Matthew, Rowan, Timothy, Michael, Avery, Fiona and Callan. She was the sister of Eleanor Sullivan and John O’Brien.
Visiting hours will be held at Conley Funeral Home, 138 Belmont Street (Rte 123) Brockton, on Sunday, May 21 from 2-6pm. The funeral procession will gather at the funeral home Monday at 9:30am for a Funeral Mass in Our Lady of Lourdes Church at 10:30am. A burial will follow in South Easton Cemetery.
Donations in her name may be made to The Jimmy Fund www.jimmyfund.org.