Jeannie Burns died at the age of 94 of natural causes on March 6, 2022, after dealing with health issues for several years. She was a real “trooper”, well known for telling people “I am tough…” as she followed through with her decision to stay at home as long as her health would allow. The last few months, she enjoyed shared living with other sweet ladies in a wonderful adult care home very near her house in Gresham. Every day at least 10 times you could hear her say “Thank you so much for helping me…you know I really appreciate it!” She was always thankful and appreciative.
Jeannie was born on May 30, 1927, in Neosho, Missouri along with her twin brother Tommy Gene Skipper, spiritual leader of their family who made sure she knew Jesus. In 1942, her family moved to Boring, primarily to work in the Kaiser Shipyards. In 1945, Jeannie married Horace Crane after he returned home from serving in the Navy. They began buying and selling homes in the Gresham area, doing repair and maintenance, and flipping them. For several years, they operated a successful home construction business. Jeannie always enjoyed children and helped raise James F. Billingsley and Virginia Kay (Billingsley) Endecott, who she loved as her own.
After her divorce, she married Jack Gentry, who unfortunately passed away. Later Jeannie was swept off her feet by her true soulmate Joe Burns. They met at Mt. View Golf Course and enjoyed 35 wonderful years until his death in 2017. Jeannie always enjoyed hunting, fishing camping and spending time with loved ones. She would grin when she showed people pictures of the moose she brought home from Canada.
Jeannie is survived by her Aunt Loretta Long Morris, sister-in-law Linda Page, nephews Greg Skipper (Wendy), Timothy Skipper Sr., niece Kimberly Skipper, numerous great nieces and nephews and cousins. She also had a group of life-long friends, over 60 years, that were like minded and enjoyed skiing, fishing, hunting, eating, and laughing and enjoying life. Of course, they were always on their best behavior!
Jeannie was preceded in death by her parents, twin brother Tommy Skipper and brother William (Pete) Skipper and Virginia Kay Billingsley (Endecott).
Jeannie will be laid to rest in the Scandinavian Cemetery following her Memorial Service.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to your local hospice.