She was born March 10, 1920 in Dingle, Idaho, to George McCann and Sophie Sant McCann. She grew up in Dingle and later in Bancroft, Idaho. The family moved to Ft. Shaw, Montana, and she graduated from Simms High School in 1938.

On April 20, 1938, she married Thurland J. Simkins in Simms, Montana. Their marriage was solemnized in the Cardston, Alberta Temple in 1947. Shortly after their marriage, they homesteaded 160 acres of prairie in the Greenfields Irrigation District 18 miles west of Fairfield, Montana.

She was an active member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints where she served in the Relief Society.

She enjoyed embroidery, crocheting, flower gardening, and in the summers going on family picnics. She was involved in the county fair for many years.

Jean's greatest joy was her family and they will really miss her.

She is survived by the following sons: Dan G. (Vernett) Simkins of Idaho Falls, Idaho; and T. Mark (Rene) of Ft. Shaw, Montana; sister-in-law, Diana Simkins of Helena, Montana; 20 Grandchildren and over 40 great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Thurland, who died March 17, 2001, and a son, Ronald L. Simkins.

Funeral services will be at 11:00 a.m. Monday, December 29, 2008, at the Fairfield, Montana, LDS Ward Chapel with Bishop Dick Swenson officiating. The family will visit with friends one hour prior to the services at the church. Burial will be in the Fairfield Cemetery under the direction of Coltrin Mortuary, 2100 First St., Idaho Falls. Idaho.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.coltrinmortuary.com .

Map to the Church in Fairfield, MT