Jean Isabelle Runion, daughter of the late Elizabeth and Harlow Mellen, passed away on May 9, 2024.

Jean, a loving wife is survived by her husband of 61 years, Ray C. Runion.  She was a very patient parent to three surviving daughters, Susan Parton (Shawn) of Cloverdale, Indiana, Ronda Timmermann (Paul) of Roanoke, VA, Mellenie Runion (Andy Loll) of Valencia,Spain.  Jean was an adoring grandmother to three grandchildren, Elizabeth Timmermann (Scott Harkless) of Bethesda, Maryland, Marta Timmermann Parr (Brendan Parr) of Richmond, VA and Kyle Timmermann of Roanoke. She was a compassionate sister to Mae Mellen Hull, (Robert), Jerry Mellen (Ethel, deceased), both of Alpena, Michigan.  Jean was also a considerate friend and neighbor to many.

Jean worked at Wurtsmith Air Force Base in Tawas City, Michigan.  After moving to Virginia, she became a civilian secretary to the Admiral of the Navy Department and worked at the pentagon during the Nixon administration.

With Jean’s cooking and baking skills she prepared food as if cooking for the Army!   Jean and Ray moved to the Shenandoah Valley, built their dream home, and she took a “less stressful” job driving a school bus for Rockingham County Schools, which she did for 40 years.

Jean will be very much missed but fiercely celebrated for years to come.

Jean’s body was cremated, and services will be private.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Jean’s name to Fulks Run Elementary P.T.O., 11089 Brocks Gap Road, Fulks Run, VA  22830.

Our sincerest appreciation goes out to the doctors and medical professionals at Shenandoah Memorial Hospital in Woodstock, who took care of Jean with such expertise and grace and showed us all love and compassion. Thank you!