Jean Zimmerman Beily, 88, passed away on Thursday, March 9, 2023.

Born December 29, 1934, in Trevorton, PA, she was the only daughter of the late Adam and Madeline(McNinch) Zimmerman. Married for 66 years, she was the devoted and loving wife to Joseph James Beily. They settled in WIllow Grove, PA and lived there until they retired and moved to Columbia, SC, where they remained for over 25 years. She was a member at Northeast Presbyterian Church in Columbia.

Jean's parents moved to Berwick, PA, soon after she was born and she graduated from Berwick High School, Class of 1952. She attended Bloomsburg State College, today known as Bloomsburg University, where she earned a teaching degree.

Jean was a teacher in the Upper Moreland School District for over 35 years. She taught Science and ELA in 6th and 8th grade for a number of years and then moved into curriculum development and remedial instruction. She earned two master degrees from Arcadia University during her teaching career.

Once she retired from teaching and settled in Columbia SC, she decided to volunteer some of her time to different programs and organizations that she was passionate about; Guardian Ad Litem, the League of Women's Voters, a reader for the Commission For the Blind, and the Let's Speak English program in the Richland County Library system. Jean became a Master Gardener with the Clemson Extension Cooperative at the Sandhill Research and Education Center and she was also an organizer for the Sparkleberry County Fair for many years.

Jean was an avid reader and learner throughout her life. If she wasn't reading, she would be in her gardens taking care of her plants. She loved flowers and always had fresh bouquets in her home.

Jean, also affectionately known as Nana, is survived by a daughter, Jodi Beily Farrell(Christopher) of Columbia, SC; 3 grandchildren, Brooke Farrell, Summer Farrell and Sutton Farrell.

She was predeceased by her parents; and recently her husband, Joseph James Beily.

There will be a private graveside service for both Jean and Joseph at Fort Jackson National Cemetery in Columbia, SC. Shives Funeral Home, Trenholm Road Chapel, is assisting the family.