Jeanine Jorgensen Dean

Jeanine Jorgensen Dean, our beloved mother, grandmother, sister, teacher, and friend, passed away on February 8, 2026, in American Fork, Utah.

Born: September 23, 1944, in Provo, Utah to Farrell Jorgensen and Claris Stubbs Jorgensen, she was the proud mother of four children.

Jeanine graduated from American Fork High School and Seminary. She received a Bachelor of Science degree from Brigham Young University in Child Development, with a minor in Elementary Education. Jeanine devoted her teaching career to the Granite School District in Salt Lake City where she served as a kindergarten teacher at Carl Sandburg Elementary for over 20 years. She was a faithful member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, serving in many callings throughout her life.

Jeanine will be remembered for her unselfish generosity and countless acts of kindness toward family, students, and friends. "Grammy" was always giving, and her loving quotes and messages will forever be cherished by her children and grandchildren. She loved all people and formed lasting friendships with people of all ages and backgrounds.

Jeanine also had a wonderful sense of humor. Her philosophy was to make her home "a bit of heaven on earth," which she accomplished even under trying circumstances. Jeanine's example of perseverance, charity, and patriotism will always remain a cherished part of her family's memories.

She adopted the family motto, "Grow old along with me; the best is yet to be," and "Home is where the heart is." She lived these words fully, even as her health declined and her body could no longer keep pace with the twinkle in her eyes. Jeanine was a self-starter in all she did and a lifelong learner; today, we know she continues to be enthusiastically involved.

Her greatest joy in life was her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Jeanine passed away knowing her greatest contribution was her complete dedication to her family, of which she was immensely proud. She left a lasting example for good to both present and future generations. She also dearly loved her many kindergarten students and always cherished those memories. She encouraged all to "Do your best, leave the rest-angels do no more."

Jeanine was preceded in death by her parents. She is survived by her sister, Rosalie Kirkland (Heber), and her four children: William F. Dean (Karen), Geoffrey K. Dean (Karol), Jennifer, and Adrienne Taggart (Jay); 11 grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, February 14th at 12:00 p.m. at Andersons & Sons Mortuary located at 49 East 100 North American Fork, Utah. (Viewing at 10:45 a.m.)