OSWEGO, NY – Jean P. Derby, 90, of Oswego, a former resident of Sterling, died Thursday morning February 13, 2020, at Seneca Hill Manor.
Jean was born in Rochester the daughter of the late Mynor and Anna (Attridge) Grapensteter.
Jean was a loving wife, mother and grandmother, who loved to care for her family.
She enjoyed gardening and quilting.
She was a member of Our Lady of the Rosary Church, Hannibal and an active volunteer, especially at the chicken and biscuits dinners.
Jean was a religious education teacher for 20 years and a scout den mother.
Jean worked as a private aide at Dulin’s and Meadowbrook Adult Home, Hannibal for more than 22 years.
Jean and her husband, Richard, were proud owners of a dairy farm in Sterling, where they also produced maple syrup.
Jean was predeceased by her husband, Richard Derby, in 2012; and their son, Ronald Derby.
She is survived by her children, Don (Bonnie) Derby of Florida, Sue (Dean) Percival of Sterling, Wayne (Mary) Derby of Georgia, Randy Derby of Florida and William (Lori) Derby of Sterling.
In addition, she is survived by her grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren.
Calling hours will be Saturday February 22, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. with a funeral service at 1 p.m. at the Sugar & Scanlon Funeral Home 147 W. Fourth St., Oswego.
Burial in Springbrook Cemetery will be in the spring.
The family has requested contribution may be made to Our Lady of the Rosary Food Pantry.
missing or outdated ad config
Jean and I started out at Meadow Brook for years and then I left there to become the Director of Faith Formation at Our Lady of the Rosary Parish. Jean taught for me for 27 years but was a teacher close to 40 years. Jean was the first one to win the award of “Catechist (teacher) of the Year for the northern region. Jean was giving this award at the Syracuse Diocese by The Bishop. She was well represented by her family and parish. We were so proud of her because she deserved a award that stood for the
“The Love of Faith”. Even thought I had my master degree in theology, Jean was my mentor. I went to her for strength and courage. I will miss her and it will be hard that’s she’s gone but she is on the journey she wanted one day and that is to meet Jesus and to be wrapped in his arms.
To the family I’m sorry I can’t be there to send her off to her journey because I’m in Jacksonville, Florida fighting to live and to get a liver in time but I know she is with me. Blessing and condolences to you all. If I was there I would ask to say something on her behave “ Mother Theresa here comes your twin”.
Jean was a sweet, loving person. God has claimed a beautiful angel. May she Rest In Peace and May all your fond memories carry you thru this difficult time. Robin (Wright) Hall
Sorry for the loss of a lovely lady, glad we got to talk with Jean a few months ago. Our thoughts are with Jean’s family.