Jennie May Stearns

Jennie May (Welker) Stearns, 88, passed away Aug. 20, 2023, with her loving and caring husband by her side.  

She was born in Boise, Idaho on May 29, 1935, to Alfred Nelson and Agness Maud (McDonald) Welker, and was raised in Boise, except when her family moved to La Junta, Colo., during World War ll (1942-1945).  She graduated from Boise High School in 1953. She was the youngest of five children and the only girl. Jennie married the love of her life, Robert (Bob) James Stearns Sept. 2, 1956. They met on a blind date at Givens Hot Springs and were married 68 years.

In 1961 Jennie moved to Hines, where Bob was employed with Edward Hines Lumber Company. After staying at home with her young family for a few years, she started working at U.S. Bank, eventually becoming U.S. Bank’s “Red Carpet Lady” for new customers. She then went to work for Harney Electric Cooperative, retiring after 24 years of service. She really enjoyed working with her co-workers and the public.

Jennie was passionate about family, friends and the community. During her youth, she participated in 4-H, achieving her 10-year pin. She continued with 4-H as a leader in Harney County. For many years, Jennie was in ESA Sorority, Beta Omicron Chapter #2018, volunteering for many community fundraisers. She was President of the local sorority 1991-1992.

Jennie had several passions and hobbies, including writing poems, genealogy, toll painting art, crossword puzzles, swimming, travel, camping, and was also a proficient seamstress, having designed and sewn a daughter’s wedding dress. She loved to cook and research recipes.  After retiring, Bob and Jennie were able to enjoy years of traveling adventures with friends.

Jennie was preceded in death by her parents, Alfred Nelson and Agness Maud (McDonald) Welker; and brothers, Grant, Russell, Lee and Robert Welker. She is survived by her husband, Bob Stearns; daughter, Teresa (Stearns) Uriarte of Baker City; son, John Stearns (wife JoLyn) of Boise; daughter, Alison (Stearns) Kincheloe (husband Charlie) of Gig Harbor, Wash. Jennie had nine grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.  

A Celebration of Life will be planned at a later date. Donations may be made to Harney Co. Home Health & Hospice, 415 N Fairview Ave, Burns, OR 97720.

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