Jeanne Paige

 With profound sadness, we announce the passing of Jeanne Paige on November 17, 2024, at the age of 63. Jeanne was an extraordinary woman whose resilience, humor, and love enriched the lives of everyone she met.

Born on December 7, 1960, in Jersey City, to Joan Terrell-Paige and Brian Paige, Jeanne was the heart and soul of her family. She was a devoted mother to Turquoise Elan Paige-Holloway and Terrell Eugene Paige, Esq., and a treasured friend to many. Throughout her life, Jeanne carried with her many lessons taught to her by her grandparents, Eugene and Emma Terrell. Jeanne’s dedication to her loved ones was unwavering, as she consistently nurtured and supported those around her with boundless affection.

Jeanne had a remarkable gift for making others laugh with her infectious and sometimes wild sense of humor, never shying away from expressing her candid and unfiltered wit. Her friendly curiosity led her to connect with people from all walks of life. Whether offering a helping hand or sharing a heartfelt conversation, Jeanne’s sincere concern for others made her a respected and beloved member of her community.

A true artist, Jeanne thrived on creative expression. From an early age, she invested countless hours in painting and jewelry making, crafting stunning creations that showcased her vibrant spirit. Her home was a lively haven adorned with an array of plants she lovingly tended, each one reflecting her caring nature. Jeanne’s singing voice brought warmth to those around her, she found her joy in music and dance, especially house music, which inspired her to celebrate life enthusiastically.

Jeanne began her professional journey in the fashion industry on 5th Avenue before transitioning into the finance sector on Wall Street. In the 90s, she discovered her true passion for education, dedicating herself to teaching and supporting families for over three decades. In 2010, at the age of 49 and while raising two children on her own, Jeanne earned her Master’s Degree in Human Services from Lincoln University, further empowering her to uplift and assist those around her. Her steadfast commitment to education and her compassionate nature touched countless lives, leaving an enduring legacy in every community she served, from Orange and Washington D.C. to Newark and Montclair, as well as families along the East Coast and in Puerto Rico.

Jeanne was more than an educator and advocate; she was a powerhouse of love, strength, and creativity. Her ability to surmount challenges and her dedication to helping others made her an extraordinary mother, friend, and individual. Jeanne’s life embodied perseverance, kindness, strength, and a steadfast dedication to improving the world.

Jeanne confronted life's obstacles with remarkable fortitude. After overcoming numerous personal hardships, she celebrated her 38th year of sobriety this May, demonstrating her unwavering determination and commitment to personal growth. Her journey was inspirational, as she dedicated herself to helping others navigate their own struggles, showcasing her bravery and empathy. Jeanne faced her health challenges with courage and grace, ultimately passing away due to complications related to her chronic illnesses. Her strength in the face of adversity was a beacon of hope to all who knew her.

Jeanne is survived by her beloved mother, Joan; her children, Turquoise and Terrell, and a community of family and friends who will forever cherish her memory.

While our hearts are heavy with the loss of Jeanne, we also honor the vibrant life she led—a life filled with laughter, love, creativity, and an unwavering dedication to others. To commemorate Jeanne’s memory, the family invites you to embrace the arts, share laughter with others, help someone in need, or plant a tree—just as she did throughout her life.

Her nurturing spirit extended to her heartfelt wish to live on as a tree, symbolizing growth, resilience, and the perpetuation of life. In honoring her desire, we will plant a tree in her memory on her birthday, December 7th, and invite all who knew her to join us in celebrating her life. Additional details will be provided in the coming days.

In her honor, we share a poem that Jeanne loved deeply, reflecting her spirit and philosophy:

"I will not die an
unlived life.
I will not live in fear
of falling or catching fire.
I choose to inhabit my days,
to allow my living to open me,
to make me less afraid,
more accessible,
to loosen my heart
until it becomes a wing,
a torch, a promise.
I choose to risk my significance;
to live so that which came to me as seed
goes to the next as a blossom
and that which came to me as blossom,
goes on as fruit.”
– Dawna Markova

Jeanne’s love for this poem encapsulates her approach to life—embracing each day with courage, creativity, and a commitment to leaving a lasting, positive impact on the world around her.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Jeanne Paige, please visit our floral store.