Jean Frances Creighton, 83, a native of Decatur, Illinois, and a longtime resident of Maryville, Tennessee, passed away peacefully at home on Sunday, September 13, 2026.

Born February 10, 1943, Jean was a devoted wife, loving mother, proud grandmother, great-grandmother and great-great-grandmother, sister, and friend. Strong, determined, and warmhearted, she was the heart of her family.

Jean married Army veteran John Wesley Creighton on June 11, 1961, in Decatur, Illinois. They shared more than 36 years of marriage until his passing on February 27, 1998. Together, they had five children: John Wesley Jr., Faith, John, Brenda, and Angie. Jean was also a loving stepmother to Russ Brink.

Jean built a remarkable career through hard work, versatility, and determination. She worked as a bank teller at Millikin National Bank before becoming a full-charge bookkeeper at Red Carpet Car Wash, where she handled accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll, and tax reports.In 1976, Jean entered the industrial workforce as a corn-preparation operator at Archer Daniels Midland (ADM). She later spent 16 years with A.E. Staley—first as a process technician in Loudon, Tennessee, and later as a belt-dryer operator and laboratory technician in Decatur. Her work included operating complex equipment, performing laboratory analysis, maintaining production processes, managing inventory, and loading trucks and railcars. She later worked through Norell in data entry, warehousing, and transportation assistance.At a time when industrial workplaces were largely dominated by men, Jean earned respect through grit, skill, and hard work. She spoke her mind, stood her ground, and never allowed anyone to dismiss or underestimate her.

Jean enjoyed cheering for the Tennessee Lady Volunteers and following NASCAR, especially her favorite driver, Jimmie Johnson. She loved Dolly Parton and other country music, watching the annual Kentucky Derby, classic television programs, and the birds outside her window. She also cherished life’s simple pleasures: meals at Cracker Barrel, fried fish, gentle back scratches, and time spent with family. Her dog, Jasmine, was a beloved and faithful companion.

During the final months of her life, Jean faced serious medical challenges with courage and determination while remaining in the comfort of her own home, surrounded by family, caregivers, and hospice. Her family is deeply grateful to everyone who prayed for Jean, visited, called, brought food, offered help, or provided comfort. They extend special thanks to the Dream Foundation for granting Jean’s hospice wish to have a FaceTime call with NASCAR legend Jimmie Johnson—a treasured experience that brought her tremendous joy.

Jean was preceded in death by her parents, Harrison and Dorothy Jean (Dickson) Nihiser; her beloved husband, John Wesley Creighton; and their firstborn son, John Wesley Creighton Jr.

She is survived by her children, Faith, John, Brenda, and Angie; her stepson, Russ Brink; her brother, Ron Nihiser of Decatur, Illinois; 18 grandchildren, 48 great-grandchildren, and six great-great-grandchildren; her beloved dog, Jasmine; and many other relatives and friends.

Jean’s love, strength, and warmth will live on through the generations she cherished, the stories her family shares, and the example she set throughout her life.

Jean will be laid to rest at East Tennessee State Veterans Cemetery in Knoxville. Information regarding her celebration of life and burial service will be shared once arrangements are finalized.

Rest peacefully, Mom. You fought long enough, loved us well, and will remain with us always.