Jean Tennant was born February 7, 1933 in Miles City, Montana to Charles and Gladys Miller; she was the eldest of two children. A graduate of Custer County High School and Western Montana College, Jean taught elementary school for two years at the Sunshine Country School north of Terry, Montana; three years in the Glendive Public Schools; and 23 years at the Plevna grade school. Jean cared deeply about her students and fulfilled her responsibility as an educator with seriousness, commitment, and dedication. Retiring from teaching in 1999, Jean moved to the family farm in Miles City where she lived for 14 years. In 2013 she moved to Big Timber, Montana to be near her daughter, son-in-law, and grandchildren. With her children at her side, she passed away in her apartment at Boulder Meadows Assisted Living on November 23, 2019 from complications due to kidney failure.
Jean was a life-long learner who loved to read, take continuing-education courses, and explore the world on her computer. Her natural curiosity and love of learning expressed itself in her passion for travel: 23 years of road trips to Plevna ball games, 24 different states explored on summer road trips with her son and daughter-in-law, a dream cruise of the Hawaiian Islands escorted by her daughter-in-law, and countless day trips exploring the backcountry of central Montana with her daughter and son-in-law. Jean was an excellent cook, who loved to hunt for new recipes on the internet, as well as being an accomplished seamstress. Music and dancing were dear to her heart, and she could always be counted on to kick up her heals to “In the Mood.” Above all, Jean was a loving and supportive mother who lived for family gatherings: she treasured playing pinochle with her children, in-laws, and friends; celebrating holidays with immediate and extended family; and, most of all, participating in countless conversations around the dinner table.
A strong, tough, resilient woman, one of Jean’s greatest attributes was her unconditional love and support during difficult, trying circumstances. Her ability to listen deeply and compassionately will be greatly missed by family and friends. She is survived by her son Kevin Tennant and wife Nancy of Las Vegas, Nevada; her daughter Lori Wheeler and husband Rick of Big Timber, Montana; grandsons Brean and Brendon Tennant of Las Vegas; grandson Colten Wheeler and his wife Ayde of Bozeman, Montana; and granddaughter Hannah Wheeler of Missoula, Montana. She is also survived by her brother Ray Miller and wife Jan of Miles City, Montana, as well as numerous nephews, nieces, and cousins.
A public viewing with the family will take place at Stevenson and Sons in Miles City on Friday, November 29th, 2019, from 4:00 to 6:00 pm. A celebration of her life will be held at Stevenson and Sons at 1:00 pm on Saturday, November 30th, 2019, with a reception at the Parlor immediately after the celebration. Services will conclude with burial in the family gravesite at Custer County Cemetery at 4:00 pm. Jean’s favorite colors were pink and purple, so everyone attending the celebration is encouraged to wear pink and purple in honor of her.
Service Schedule
Family to Receive Friends
4:00 PM to 6:00 PM
Friday November 29, 2019
Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home
1717 Main Street
Miles City, Montana 59301
Memorial Service
1:00 PM
Saturday November 30, 2019
Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home
1717 Main Street
Miles City, Montana 59301
Interment
4:00 PM
Saturday November 30, 2019
Custer County Cemetery
Cemetery Road
Miles City, Montana 59301
Service Schedule
Family to Receive Friends
4:00 PM to 6:00 PM
Friday November 29, 2019
Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home
1717 Main Street
Miles City, Montana 59301
Memorial Service
1:00 PM
Saturday November 30, 2019
Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home
1717 Main Street
Miles City, Montana 59301
Interment
4:00 PM
Saturday November 30, 2019
Custer County Cemetery
Cemetery Road
Miles City, Montana 59301
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Penny Benner says
She was a teacher in every way. Always reading and sharing what she had learned. May she rest in peace, but the knowledge she imparted forever remain. Blessings to the Tennant and Wheeler family.
Kay Carlson says
Nancy and Kevin and family,
She sounds like a wonderful lady. I’m sure her passing will leave a big hole in your hearts. Sending my deepest condolences.
Terry Bruha says
Jean was a dear friend and colleague in our years of teaching at Plevna. She truly loved her job. I used to see Jean at Community Concerts in Miles City after she retired. We will cherish all the memories. Rest in Peace Jean
Randy & Amanda Tunby says
Mrs. Tennant was a gift to her students and those who worked with her. I enjoyed the years we taught together and the guidance she provided. May your memories bring you comfort. Sending our condolences.
Alvin,Sharon, Ryan & Kevin Wenz says
Kevin, Lori & families, Sympathy extended to you at this time of your loss. Know that we are thinking of you and keeping you in prayer. We have many fond memories of your mom–enjoyed her friendship, soft spoken nature and memorable smile. Hugs & embraces!
Candice Kelly says
Mrs. Tennant (I could never bring myself to call her Jean) was my 2nd grade teacher and one of my very favorites! I have many happy memories of her when I was young, but my favorite came just a few years ago. She influenced my decision to become a teacher myself and when I had my own 2nd grade classroom, I invited her to come meet my students. In true “Mrs. Tennant” fashion, she came prepared with a book to read, stories to tell, and even an old Plevna annual with a 2nd grade photo of “Mrs. Kelly”! I will be forever grateful for her influence in my life. All my love and prayers to her family and many thanks for sharing her with all of us!
Charlotte Miller says
Lori and Family,
I always enjoyed visiting with your Mom and Jane when we would meet in Miles City. We had coffee a couple of times and talked “school”. My sympathy to all of you.
Jane Magnuson Robertson says
Jean was practically a member of the Magnuson family; she spent a lot of holidays with us. We all enjoyed her stories, baked goods, and playing games with her. We will miss her and feel blessed to have had her in our lives!
Jan Stickney says
I am going to be one disappointed lady if the weather prevents me from coming to Miles City! Mrs. Tennant was an awesome lady and I would love to have a chance to hug you both, Lori and Kevin. Your mom was a wonderful role model for her children! My thoughts and prayers are with you both!
Lynette O’Connor says
I was privileged to work with Jean at the Plevna School! She was a special lady and teacher! I hope the weather permits me to attend! So sorry for your loss! May she RIP!
Jeanette O'Dea says
jean was a wonderful and kind person. I enjoyed many visits with her. My deepest sympathy to her family
Bruce Trafton says
Jean and my mother were first cousins. Jean sat with Mom during Mom’s last days, and was with her when she passed. Jean has my undying gratitude, for that act of kindness and more. She raised a couple of really remarkable children, which is her greatest gift to all of us. Judging by that, she must have been a superlative teacher.
Larry Tennant says
So sorry for your loss, I lost your and Nancy’s friends request .please resubmit so I can keep in touch. Mailing address is 22miller rd,glenrock Wyoming, 82637. Again it’s a tough time, love you all,Larry