Obituary of Jean C. Wainright

Jean C. Wainright of Clinton, New York, passed away peacefully on April 14, 2025, just a few weeks short of her 95th birthday.

She was preceded in death by her husband of 57 years, Harvey Wainright. She is survived by her children: Matthew Wainright of Clinton NY, Amy Wainright (Mike Chicchelly) of Clark Mills NY, Lincoln Wainright (Barbara Wainright) of Rochester NY, and Jesse Wainright (Tina Vrabec) of Willoughby Hills OH, as well as her beloved granddaughter Kayla.

She is also survived by her sister, Diana Peil of Syracuse NY, and the children and grandchildren of her sister.

Jean was born in Palmer, Massachusetts, and was the valedictorian of her high school class. She graduated cum laude from Syracuse University in 1951 with a bachelor’s degree in American Studies.

Jean was a homemaker who devoted her free time to many charitable activities. At the Clinton United Methodist Church she was active in United Methodist Women, helping to produce the bazaar, the luncheons, the pot-lucks, and various celebrations. She sang in the choir every Sunday and served as the Church's financial secretary for several decades.

Jean was a Red Cross volunteer for more than fifty years and a multi-gallon blood donor. A founding member of the Kirkland Bloodmobile Committee, she worked at blood drives and served as its treasurer for many years.

Jean also was a member of the Republican Town Committee in Kirkland, serving as an election inspector for five decades.

Jean and Harvey played bridge with the General Electric retirees often, enjoying it greatly. In fact, Jean and Harvey met during a bridge game, initiating the partnership that would come to define their lives. With Harvey's support, Jean was to create the home they both valued. She was a devoted wife and mother, an avid reader, a gardener, a photographer, and an animal lover, giving freely to animal charities.

In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Jean Wainright may be made to the Clinton United Methodist Church current expense fund.

A Celebration of Life will be held at the Church sometime in May to remember the myriad positive ways that Jean touched the lives of so many, in her community and beyond.