Published in the May 15, 2018 edition.
MELROSE — Jean B. (Barnard) Corliss, 96, a resident of Melrose and Wakefield, died peacefully on Sunday, May 13, 2018 in her home at Brightview in Wakefield.
Jean was born on June 17, 1921 in Everett, one of three children of the late Bradford and Pearl (McGinnis) Barnard. Jean is the beloved wife of the late Richard F. Corliss. Devoted mother of Janet C. Kazo and her husband Hiroshi of New York City, Elaine C. Thibodeau and her husband Robert Thibodeau of Wakefield, and the late Laurel C. Swift of Chandler, Arizona. Dear sister of the late Doris Chisholm and Marjory Butler. Cherished grandmother of Rebecca Love and her husband Nic, Sara Swift and her husband John Drews, Christopher Thibodeau and his wife Teresa, and Brienne Thibodeau. Proud great-grandmother of Skyler Love and Ella Thibodeau.
Jean grew up in Everett, and graduated from Everett High School. She continued her education at New England Business Schools and went on to work as a secretary during her life. Growing up, Jean was active in her church group and made lifelong friends that came to be known as the Sewing Club. Among the many friends there she met Richard (Dick) Corliss, whom she would go on to marry in 1946 and share 47 wonderful years together.
Jean was actively involved in her longtime membership at Melrose Highlands Congregational Church, where she served on the Woman’s Guild, and was a member of the Couples Club. In her later years she enjoyed the Lunch Bunch and Sunday dinners with her close church friends. Beyond the church, Jean served on the board as Corresponding Secretary of the Woman’s Club and the Community Associates of Melrose. Outside of church activities Jean was a Girl Scout leader and volunteered at the Melrose-Wakefield Hospital Gift Shop into her 90s.
As a home-maker raising her family, Jean had a passion for special occasions and holidays. Every meal was a delight and her flair for entertaining resonates throughout her family.
Jean and Dick enjoyed traveling with friends and family both internationally and domestically.
Jean touched many lives through the years at church, and numerous community organizations she belonged to. She never forgot the important things in life: family, friends, and love. She will be deeply missed.
Relatives and friends will gather in honor and remembrance of Jean’s life during visiting hours at the Robinson Funeral Home, 809 Main St., Melrose on Wednesday, May 16 from 4-8 p.m., and for her funeral service celebrated at Melrose Highlands Congregational Church, 355 Franklin St., Melrose, on Thursday at 11 a.m. Interment will be private.
For online tribute or directions visit RobinsonFuneralHome.com.
