Jean E. (Pottle) Funk

Jean E. (Pottle) Funk, 53, of Sheffield, MA passed away at home surrounded by her loving family on July 27, 2022 after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer that began a year ago.

Jean was born on February 27, 1969 in North Adams, MA as the first child of David and Marsha Pottle. In her youth, Jean was a three season accomplished athlete, member of the band, and NHS. After graduating from Mount Everett Regional High School in 1987, she went on to study insurance and consumer affairs at the University of Rhode Island where she played the flute in the marching band.

Jean met the love of her life, Michael Funk, in 1987 when she was 18. The two were married in 1991 and settled in Sheffield, MA. You could often find the young family at Lebanon Valley Speedway, fishing on Lake Ontario, or riding in Mike’s white Mustang. It is only fitting that Jean surprised Mike with a red Mustang this year after 30 years of marriage. Jean always gave the best gifts. She knew what people needed and was the first in line to step up to help or offer support.

Her family was her biggest joy and she was so proud of their children and grandchildren. She loved the role of “Grandma”. Laughing while sneaking the kids a bite of ice cream, she always lit up around those she loved.

Jean and Mike loved to travel and have cruised from the tropics to Alaska, always up for a new adventure. They have been blessed with many friends who share their adventurous spirit and they were delighted to have their whole crew with them at Jean’s favorite place, Aruba, this year for a family vacation. They also made many memories each year during their annual vacation to Lake Ontario.

Smart and organized, Jean was always a planner. Much to her sister’s chagrin, she liked to discuss family holiday gifts before August! Her family was the most important thing to Jean as she was often selfless and put them first. Everyone could always count on a birthday card or delicious holiday peanut butter balls from her, she remembered everyone and made sure they felt her love.

She started working at Price Chopper her junior year of high school and remained a valued employee until this past fall. She was also a proud member of the Sheffield Fire Department Support Group and made many cherished friends amongst the women there.

Jean is survived by her husband Michael; their daughter Heather [Cody] Garrett of Ardmore, OK and their children Nathan, Tanner, Tayler, Tally; daughter Kimberly [Shawn] Hollinshed also of Ardmore OK; son Matthew [Bria] Funk of Sheffield, MA; her parents David & Marsha Pottle of Sheffield, MA; sisters Amy Murray & Sarah Siket , her maternal grandmother Shirley Price, her paternal grandfather Oliver Pottle, and many beloved nieces & nephews, aunts & uncles, cousins, family & dear friends she made during her too short time here.

SERVICES - A service celebrating Jean’s life will be held on Monday, August 1 ^st at 11:00 a.m. at Finnerty & Stevens Funeral Home in Great Barrington, MA.  Burial will follow at Sheffield Center Cemetery in Sheffield.

The family will receive friends on Sunday, July 31 ^st from 4-7 PM at the funeral home in Great Barrington.

Donations in memory of Jean may be made to the Sheffield Volunteer Hose Company #1, PO Box 860, Sheffield, MA 01257. To send remembrances to her family please go to www.finnertyandstevens.com