Date Of Birth: August 28, 1937
Date Of Death: December 22, 2009
Jean Claire (Moutrie) Coughlin, 72, of Indianapolis, passed away Tuesday, December 22, 2009. Born in Green Bay, WI on August 28, 1937, Jean was the daughter of the late William C. and Mildred V. (Hering) Moutrie.As the valedictorian for the class of 1955 at Green Bay West High School, Jean went on to graduate Cum Laude from St NorbertÂ’s College in 1959 as one of the first women to earn a Bachelor of Science degree in Physics and Mathematics. While there, she met and married Robert B. Moore of Chicago IL, with whom she remained close.Following an 18 year absence from the academic world and while continuing to raise her children, she resumed studies in 1977, entering the physics graduate program in energy-related fields at George Mason University. Jean began her professional career a year later as an environmental scientist for Versar, Inc., serving as a test manager and team leader. Excelling as a staff engineer and project manager at Ensco, Inc., she enjoyed a successful career managing naval sonar systems upgrades and testing from 1983 until her retirement in 2002. Most recently Jean found both enrichment and reward working with infants at Learning Time Preschool of Indianapolis.Jean is survived by her six children, Eileen (Michael) Bishop, Lisbeth (Thomas) Fabiny, Karen (Joseph) Mizer, Jeffrey Moore, Sarah Moore, Christopher (Susan) Moore; 10 grandchildren, Tyler Bishop, MacKenzie Bishop, Audrey Fabiny, Neil Fabiny, Samuel Fabiny, Jason Mizer, Danielle Moore, Kristen Moore, Matthew Moore, Michael Moore; two sisters, Mary Lou Tousey, Bette Hlava; one brother Michael Moutrie; many nieces, nephews and longtime companion and family friend Richard Hall. Jean also enjoyed many friendships in the Indianapolis area with whom she shared her political, spiritual and community interests.Jean found peace and strength in nature. She treasured the seashore and was moved by the sight of the Smokey Mountains. Jean lived fully in her appreciation of nature and the environment, with a lifetime passion for natural healing, nutrition, exercise and gardening. Never focusing on her own achievements, JeanÂ’s legacy is her pride in the accomplishments of her children and their families. Warm memories of her many visits filled with laughter and spirited conversation will continue to provide happiness and comfort to all who knew her. JeanÂ’s compassion and belief in social responsibility is reflected in her involvement with charities devoted to environmental and humane causes. Memorial service will be at Harry W. Moore Funeral Care, 8151 Allisonville Rd, Indianapolis on Thursday, December 24, 2009 at 2:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Covenant House, Times Square Station PO Box 731 New York, NY 10108-0731, which helps homeless and runaway children; www.covenanthouse.org .
Caryl Nelson says
I am so sorry to hear that Jean died. We were good friends in High School. In fact Jean was going to sing at our wedding, until the priest said no, as I am Lutheran. Such a shame, I am glad things are different now. It was good to read about her life. We did visit the family in Virginia when my boys were young. Many memories of Jeannie singing in the chorus at West High. I know this is a bad time of year, but think how happy your Mom is in heaven with Jesus on his birthday, Caryl & Hal Nelson class of 55.
Susan Engle says
Dear Moutries and Moores of all branches,
I have been thinking the last few days how much I enjoyed Jean’s gentle presence and stories about life in the Moutrie house. What a great laugh she has. Truly, she must be laughing still, surrounded by unconditional love and the prayers of her family and friends for the progress of her good soul.
Much love to all,
Susan
bette hlava says
I will always remember your mom. She was my older sister and a big part of my life even though we didn’t see each other often.I remember waiting for summer to come because she would too, along with a new baby to play with. I remember how clever she was and how I wished I could be more like her. She will live in my heart forever.I love you all and carry your sorrow with me.
Byron Zuehlk says
I have some memories from my early childhood when we would visit the family in Greem Bay. After my brother and I were old enough to handle the chores(Milking cows) we were left home so mom and dad could vacation in Greem Bay. I lost touch with Jean until after my dad died and and she came to visit my mother. It was great to see Jean again. And she had a great time with Susan and she would take her out to dinner and do things with her when she came and Susan loved it.
I offer my Condolences and pray that the family gains strength from her life. God Bless
Byron Zuehlk
Kendra says
God has truly called an Angel home. Ms. Jean was a very sweet and loving person. She will be missed by all who knew her!!
Kathleen Kryzanek Heyrman says
Jean and I were classmates, long ago, at St. Joseph’s Catholic School in Green Bay. I remember a smart, pretty girl with a beautiful voice.
May she rest in peace,
Kathleen
donna walton says
an inspiration to me in many areas of my life,I wish you peace and serenity on your continuing journey
Dennis Zuehlk says
So very sorry to hear of Jean’s passing. You all will be in our prayers.
Layli Phillips says
Prayers are offered up for Aunt Jean for her spiritual flight into the next world, that she is filled with joy and goes straight to the Light, not being hindered by the misfortunes of this world. Prayers are offered up for all the family for healing from grief and sorrow.
Love, love, love
Sue Schwartz Blinstrub says
May your memories soothe you, your friends comfort you, and your family’s strength help your heart begin to heal.
I remember well a singing voice that was so pure and beautiful.
My deepest sympathy…
Sue Schwartz Blinstrub…West High Class of “55”
Barbara says
God now has one more angel in his midst! A lot of people pass through our lives but not many touch as many people as Jean surely did. She is and will be sorely missed.
Ruth Taylor says
To Jean’s family:
My sincere condolences on the loss of your mother. I worked for her thru Ensco at Fort Ben. A very kind, professional, and brilliant lady.
God bless,
Ruth Taylor
Marianne says
There are no words to ease the pain of losing a parent. Your family is in my prayers.
Johnson Doris says
you and your family have my deepest
sympathy. But God will redeem her soul from the power of the grave Jesus said In my father house are many mansions:In there is eternal Life in the heavens. Love co-worker of Marylou Tousey. Doris Johnson.
Juanita Porter says
My deepest sympathy for the family.
I also work with Marylou Tousey.
Juanita Porter
Toni House says
I work with Mary Lou Tousey and I send my condolences during this very difficult time. My prayers are with your family.
Judy Plotner says
Jean was always kind and considerate of my sister Susan when she would visit Aunt Ruth Zuehlk. I will always appreciate her compassion. She is surely at peace.
Joyce Swanson Heney says
From St. Joseph Grade School to West High, we were always good friends. We both shared a love of singing and had such good times in choir and all the clubs we belonged to. But Jean was so much smarter and went on to college to do great things and raise a wonderful family, and so we lost touch. The world was a better place when she lived, she made a difference. I am happy to say that I knew her when. My prayers are with all her family.
Barbara Cotter says
Many families from the Good Shepherd Community in Alexandria, VA send their prayers to the family at this time. When Jean picked up her guitar and began to sing, it was a true gift that she shared with the Good Shepherd Community.