Jeanne Winburn passed away peacefully on January 24, 2022 after a hard fought battle with Uveal Melanoma. She was surrounded by her loving husband Gary Winburn and many family members.
Jeanne was the third child of Jim and Dorothy Scheible. Her three year-old sister, Mary Elaine (now deceased), had been hoping for both a little brother and a little sister. She got her wish when twins John and Jeanne were born on November 12, 1958. Five years later, her sister Barbara was born. Jeanne grew up in Irondequoit, NY. Being the middle sister was not always easy but she managed it well. Their mutual love affected their lives profoundly from childhood through to the end, and that network was a defining element in each of their lives.
Jeanne graduated from Irondequoit High School and Monroe Community College before starting her career at Bausch & Lomb and then Luxottica. While working there she completed a bachelor’s degree in Business at St. John Fisher College. Her family was very proud of this great achievement.
This led to her work at Excellus BlueCross BlueShield in Human Resources. Her mix of warmth, intelligence, emotional intuition, and candor no doubt served her well. There was no better forum for her to display her gifts. She made many lifelong friends during her time there as she did wherever she worked.
Jeanne loved and cherished all her family members. She was particularly close with her grandparents. Every Wednesday she would have dinner with her paternal grandparents, one of whom called her ‘my sunshine’, a term they would all agree on. In the years since, many of us could use those words to describe her and what she meant to us.
Jeanne was also very close with her parents Jim and Dorothy. She called them daily to check in with them, brought them home cooked meals, and helped them with grocery and clothes shopping. She was a constant support to both of them and was very present in their lives up until the end.
Jeanne and her twin brother John had a special bond. She described herself in the early years as the ‘evil twin’, mostly because of the many times she sent her twin brother to the Emergency Department. Incredibly, he survived and learned to never get suckered by a cute gal with a drink (lest it be poisonous). Life long lesson. She was given the honor of ‘Best Twin’ at his wedding to Diane. This unusual designation got a mention in the local paper. The truth is that it was unthinkable for her to have any other role. She gave an enthusiastic ‘twin thumbs up’ when she first met Diane and kept that assessment ever since. A blessing for John.
John and Diane’s daughters Meryl (Jock) and Grace were also a great light and joy in Jeanne’s life. She was undoubtedly a key person in their lives who made both of them feel unique, special, and valued. She dearly loved Meryl and Jock’s two children, Ridge and Dawson. Dawson and Jeanne share the middle name Mary. She loved the time she spent with Ridge and enjoyed seeing the pictures and videos of him keeping his parents and grandparents busy. Meeting three-month-old Dawson this past Christmas was a profound moment of joy for her and for her family.
Jeanne was also very close with her older sister Mary Elaine and her two children, Erin and Jillian. The three of them always stayed with Jeanne when visiting Rochester from Cleveland. Mary Elaine and Jeanne would often stay up late talking and laughing. After Mary Elaine passed away in 2012, Jeanne took on a supportive, nurturing role toward her daughters. Jeanne was a constant guiding figure in their lives and never hesitated to dole out advice. Jeanne was very welcoming to Jillian’s fiance Jon. Over the years Erin, Jillian, and Jon enjoyed many fishing trips and campfires with Jeanne and Gary.
Jeanne was the Maid of Honor in her sister Barbara’s weddings. Jeanne and Barbara spoke every day. They shared lots of laughs together and enjoyed many hours-long shopping trips. Even throughout her illness Jeanne remained upbeat and humorous, interested in others and provided invaluable sisterly advice. Barbara chronicled Jeanne’s illness to a friend who wrote, “Even though I never met Jeanne, I feel she has given me a profound gift.” She noted that Jeanne quietly taught a master class on how to exit this world with grace.
Jeanne’s years with Gary were the happiest of her life. Their love story was one for the ages. They met in 2013 and were soon taking fishing trips together on Gary’s boat. Jeanne caught her first fish (to the great surprise of her friends and family!) at Black Lake and Gary took her back to the same spot when he proposed in 2016. Jeanne always recalled their wedding day on February 24, 2018 as the best day of her life. Jeanne greatly enjoyed getting to know Gary’s family, especially his children Sam and Morgan. In her last days, Jeanne was asked what she thought Heaven would be like. She didn’t hesitate in answering, “fishing with Gary and lots of sunsets.” It was apparent that Jeanne’s love for him was big enough to fill up several lifetimes. Their love was a joy and a privilege to witness.
Jeanne put others first and knew how to make others feel loved. She was a caring, thoughtful person with a healthy sense of fun and mischief. She always knew how to make people laugh. It was no surprise that she had countless good friends, many of whom supported her and Gary through her illness. Even in her last days she constantly had friends stopping by and sending her thoughtful messages.
Jeanne had many cousins who all feel her loss in a unique way. Three of her cousins could be there for her last journey and with their professional skills, loving care, and special gifts represented all so beautifully. Bee, Ellen and Margaret were angels to her and showed a hint of the divine in their care of Jeanne and for the rest of her loved ones.
Jeanne was a spiritual person and her Catholic faith was very important to her. She had a sense of the credal formula ‘communion of saints’ with special emphasis on those she knew who went before her: her grandparents, aunts, uncles, friends, and her sister Mary Elaine. In her last days she often repeated several traditional prayers, especially the Glory Be.
Loving. Caring. Radiant. Thoughtful. Smart. Mischievous. Fun. Sunshine. Wife. Daughter. Best Twin. Sister. Sister-in-law. Aunt. Great Aunt. Friend. Teacher of Life Lessons.
At the end she told John, “Take care of yourself.” She wanted that for all of us.
My heart is broken for your family. Jeanne and I were friends in high school and always enjoyed seeing each other at our reunions. Jeanne had such a wonderful spirit. She was a great friend to many and will be missed terribly. Keeping all of you in my thoughts and prayers. Rest In Peace Jeanne. ♥️
Jeanne and I met while working at Excellus and remained friends through retirement. At work, she gave meaningful advice to those who sought her out, and always showed how much she cared for staff. She was an amazing person and I feel so lucky that I got to know her. She had a wonderful sense of humor. I loved her smile, and laughter. Jeanne was very happy after her marriage to Gary and it was a wonderful opportunity and pleasure for Peter and me to visit them this year, and get to know him better. We will always treasure our Thursday afternoons laughing and catching up on activities in their cozy family room or deck. Our condolences go out to her close-knit family, who she spoke of often. We will miss you, dear friend.
I never knew Jeanne in person. I “met” her through numerous emails, back and forth, with Jeanne’s sister Barbara. The devotion of Barbara’s love and care for Jeanne gave me a rare window into a beautiful soul. I’ll always wonder how Jeanne maintained her gentle, giving spirit through all her final harrowing months; but I am determined to carry Jeanne with me as a guide for how to live and how to let go, with love, grace, and dignity. Such a strong, loving family too, that has endured more sadness than I can fathom. Looking at Jeanne’s serene face here for the very first time, I can see she spent a lifetime immersed in love. My sincere condolences to all who knew and loved Jeanne. Let this be my gentle, warm embrace, as my wish to provide some meager comfort.
My sincere condolences to Jeanne’s husband and family. Jeanne and I were practically inseparable in high school. We spent many long hours on the phone after school – to both our family’s dismay at times. Although we lost touch many years ago, I have never forgotten how special our friendship was. Often I would think of her and pray for her. The lovely tribute of her life and love for her family is just how I remember her. Sweet peace dear Jeanne.
Terribly saddened to learn of Jeanne’s passing. She truly was an amazing person filled with positively. Sending heartfelt condolences to the family. Rest In Peace my friend.
Jeanne was a light of positivity and sunshine. She was a joy. It was an honor to know her I send my deepest sympathy to her family and friends. She was loved by many
Jeanne was one of those people who you always remember during life. I was friends with her in high school. Her personality was infectious. I also worked at Bausch & Lomb in a distant department and would run into her. She never changed and always retained her beauty inside and out. My sincere condolences go out to John and her family.
A wonderful epitaph written for a most wonderful person. I knew Jeanne since 5th grade and was her friend as well a friend to her brother John. In fact I have been blessed to be friends with the whole family for most of my life. This a sad loss for me. But the memories I have swimming in the pool at the house on Glenmont and the days of just hanging out and talking brings comfort to help deal with the sadness. John if I can be of any help during this time please let me know. May God Bless you Diane Barbara Gary your parents and the rest of you family.
What an incredibly beautiful testimony to a remarkable human being! I have had the privilege of Jeanne’s friendship for well over 35 years and it was one of my dearest joys. We worked together and played together, sharing many of life’s most precious and painful moments. We cemented our bond when we shared the adventure of attending St. John Fisher College to complete our Bachelors Degree together, and it was a wild and crazy one! She was my only daughter’s Confirmation sponsor and taught Monica so much about faith and life. For that, I will always be grateful.
I send so much love to her beautiful parents and family, who loved her so well and created such a beautiful human being. I will forever thank God for sending her Gary, for whom she waited so long and who gave her so much love, joy and support. And I share the grief of so many friends who are left behind.
I rejoice that Jeanne is now at peace in her heaven after such a difficult journey. But I miss and will love her forever.
Sending the family lots of hugs in this time of loss. With our friends at perinton Presbyterian, we have been praying for all of you for several weeks.
Such a warm and heartfelt story of Jeanne, her family and friends. I express sincere condolences and warm thoughts as you celebrate Jeanne and Gary, and the extended family. My thoughts are with you all through this trying time, as are my prayers.
This is such a beautifully written tribute to Jean. We are so deeply sorry for your family’s great loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you every day. Sending our love.
I met Jeanne while we were both working at Bausch & Lomb. We became friends and often shared time outside of work. I had the chance to meet her mother, Dot (as she referred to her), at her home in Irondequoit. My husband and I helped Jeanne move into her apartment in Charlotte all those years ago. I somehow lost track of Jeanne (sadly), and recently tried to find her but wasn’t successful. Her passing saddens me deeply. She was a fun, wonderful soul. This tribute is beautiful. I am so sorry and send my very deepest condolences to all her family.
I was heartbroken to learn of Jeanne’s passing. One can only imagine what this has been like for the family…sending along my sincerest condolences.
Echoing what many have said, Jeanne was a bright light and one of the kindest people I had the pleasure to connect with many years ago.
As a consultant, we rarely have the luxury of selecting our contacts. Wow, did we hit the jackpot with Jeanne as the HR person! She possessed many qualities, but what stands out the most was her brilliance at navigating challenging situations, a sense of humor, and light-hearted, loving nature. Jeanne’s mischievousness and memorable laugh made for plenty of enjoyable work experiences.
After some late work nights, followed by even later dinners, we spent time swapping stories about our lives. Jeanne spoke so lovingly of her nieces and the desire to settle down with her person. At some point, Gary entered the picture, and Jeanne was smitten. She always looked beautiful at work, and we shared a love of clothing, shoes, and lipgloss. So I had a little trouble imagining her fishing with Gary. She absolutely loved it!
One memory emblematic of her character was an experience we had at dinner. The young server revealed that she would forgo a college education and continue working instead. Jeanne jumped right into action to persuade the young lady to change her mind. She was genuinely concerned about her future, even if she had only met her moments earlier. That’s how I remember Jeanne…loving, funny, smart, and kind beyond measure.
What a beautiful write-up and so deserving for such a warm, engaging, compassionate caring person that Jeanne was. I had the pleasure of working with Jeanne at a few companies in town and I was always proud to call her a friend. She will be missed. I have no doubt that she is looking down from heaven and watching over all of her family and friends
So heartbroken to know this. Never knew her personally,she used to be my hotel’s regular guest.Have been seeing her every month to visit her doctor in Philadelphia.They were such a nice caring couple.The day i heard about her sickness i felt so bad.Have seen her last month feeling so weak.I used to feel for her.So nice and calm personality. The day she had been told she just have weeks left to survive she looked so weak.She loved the corner rooms always.Such a kind hearted human.I wish she is in a much better place with no pain with a big smile in her face.Rest in peace Jeanne ❤ Will miss your lovely face ❤
I was a former fitness instructor in a tiny gym in the old Bausch and Lomb building. She was, hands down, one of my favorite people and loved when she would come for her daily workouts. She worked very hard as we would talk about life. Her energy was fantastic and her soul was warm and kind. She always talked about her family and how much she loved them. I haven’t seen her in many years but news of her passing struck me like lightning. My condolences to her family.
Jeanne was truly an angel on earth. I was lucky enough to sit across from Jeanne while working at Excellus. Once the diet coke can opened, it was business time. She gave her all. She was a mediator, a master negotiator and most importantly a relationship builder. It was very common for a person to come into her cubicle upset or angry and then suddenly laughter would ring out. Jeanne just had that magic touch. When Jeanne called someone “a good egg”, she was right. If you were really lucky, she would christen you with a loving nickname, which was often what she called you behind your back. (My Tommy, My Mikey, etc.).
When Jeanne cared for you, she wrapped you in her angel wings. You knew you could say anything to her and in return, you would have an honest conversation and lots of laughter. She had a unique ability to say or write the most beautiful heartfelt words. She spoke most lovingly about her family – her twin, her sisters, her nieces and most importantly her parents. Her compassion for others will never be forgotten.
Although she may no longer be with us, she shared her beautiful gifts with us so that we can carry on her legacy of compassion, kindness and grace.
Fly high Angel Jeanne. We know you are watching over us with a twinkle in your eye and a big smile on your face.
I went to high school with Jeanne and John. Jeanne was always super upbeat and lots of fun. She was one of my classmates that I will always remember. May she Rest In Peace and May her memory be a blessing
I am so sorry to learn of Jeanne’s life being cut so short. I grew up two doors from the Scheibles on Glenmont Drive and was great friends with Mary Elaine. I remember Jeanne and John as little kids and do remember that she was full of mischief. Mr. and Mrs. Scheible I am so sorry that you have suffered the unthinkable loss of a child twice. You will all be in my prayers.
My heartfelt condolences to all of Jeanne’s family. I knew Jeanne from Excellus. She was always supportive and so helpful. We had many laughs together. I was so happy for her when she met Gary. Her eyes twinkled when she spoke of him. We had lunch planned but Jeanne cancelled and I regret not pushing her to pick another date. Knowing Jeanne added light to my world. I am sad.
I was heart broken to see Jeanne’s obituary. I had the privilege of meeting Jeanne while working at Excellus. We became friends and I quickly realized she was a true angel on this earth. I’m upset at her passing, but I know for sure she’s in Heaven and hoping everyone here will be ok. I truly believe Jeanne was an angel not only on earth, but now in Heaven as well watching over everyone. Thank you for everything Jeanne.
The spirit of love that inspired this tribute and came from Jeanne’s actions in life is a gift and inspiration. I pray for her spirit to continue to guide you. It has been many years since seeing her but I remember Jeanne from my childhood at st Thomas parish and Iroquois. I remember the smile and energy and kindness back then. My heartfelt condolences to John and all of her family and friends
I have only known Jeanne for a few short years, but she instantly became one of my favorite people with her sunny disposition and infectious laugh. She was a very bright light and a beautiful soul – truly an Angel on Earth. She famously named us girls the WOBL’s (Wives of Black Lake) and had wine glasses engraved, that we would use on our annual Couple’s Weekend at Black Lake. WOBL’s wobble but they don’t fall down! She was just SO adorable – getting up at the crack of dawn to go fishing with the ‘love of her life’ while the rest of us more seasoned wives (except maybe Luanne) would laugh at her request to join her and go back to sleep. I have never laughed so hard as during those weekends. She was an such easy person to love and I will miss her. I know that she is an Angel now, watching over all of us, and whispering words of encouragement and love. Thank you so much Jeanne, for blessing us with your love and light. Rest in peace, my friend….
I am so sorry to heard of Jeanne’s passing. I met Jeanne while working at Excellus. She had such a positive attitude, was always very helpful and had such a smile on her face. That smile was so big when she told me she had met someone and later was engaged! Hugs and sincere condolences to Jeanne’s family!
I was shocked and saddened to just find out about Jeanne’s passing. I met Jeanne at St. John Fisher College as we were both obtaining our Bachelor’s degree. I also had the pleasure of working with Jeanne at Excellus Blue Cross Blue Shield. My cubicle was right next to hers. Jeanne was very good at talking to employees and making them feel 100% better when they left her cube. She was so funny and we shard many life’s stories and her quest to find her one true love. I was so happy when she told me about Gary! I ran into them one night at The Cheese Cake Factory, I could see how happy she was. I have so many great memories of her that I will cherish. My condolences go out to her entire family. I am sorry for your loss.
I was saddened to hear about Jeanne’s passing. I worked with Jeanne at Excellus and she was the warmest, sweetest, most enjoyable co-worker that anyone could hope for. We kept in touch after we had both left Excellus – I got Jeanne and Gary to try swing dancing and once in a while, got together for lunch to see where our lives had taken us. The last time we met, Jeanne shared wedding pictures with me and talked about how happy she was with Gary and her new life. She was blessed with love and family and friends that will always hold her memories dear to their hearts and smile when we think about her. She was a wonderful person that left us too soon. Rest in Peace my friend.
My sorrow for your loss is intensified by reading the wonderful description of Jeane. It is a great description of the major place Jeane played in your family life. I can only express my sadness and hope it helps to relieve your grief. My prayer includes now includes Jeane and your family.
I am extremely sad to learn of Jeanne’s passing. She was such a warm, engaging, compassionate and caring person. She was always smiling and brought positive energy to the room. This is a true loss. Rest in peace Jeanne.
I am deeply saddened to hear this. She was special to me during her years at Excellus. She was always available to meet and talk and she provided such good counsel. Her passing is a huge loss.