Jean M. DeFrates

Jean M. DeFrates, 97, of Springfield, passed away on Friday, March 15, 2024.

Jean was a resident at Carriage Crossing in Rochester, IL. She was born in 1926 on a farm in Jonesboro, IL. to Clyde D. Mowery and Eulalah C. (Dillow) Mowery, where she lived until coming to Springfield, IL and working for the state.

In 1951 Jean married Melvin “Port” DeFrates. They ran a carpet cleaning service out of their home for many years. Jean was a homemaker and active in the University of Illinois Home Extension. She later worked for Sangamon County in the Circuit Clerk’s office. She was also a member of Third Presbyterian Church

Jean is survived by two children, Susan Nergenah (Greg) of Springfield, and Mark (Irene) of North Carolina; three granddaughters, Kristi (Randy) Pettus, Kelli (Matt) Smith and Lyla DeFrates and several great grandchildren.

She was predeceased by her parents, husband, “Port”; two brothers, Perry and Robert Mowery and a sister, Lucille Smithey.

Private graveside services will be held at Camp Butler National Cemetery in Springfield, IL.

Memorial donations may be made to Third Presbyterian Church.

Wilson Park Funeral Home in Rochester is in charge of arrangements.

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