Jeanette Carolyn May Obituary
Jeanette Carolyn May, age 66, a resident of Newport, WA passed away on Monday, April 4, 2022 after a courageous battle against cancer. Jeanette was born on April 23, 1955 in Racine, Wisconsin the daughter of Harold Milton and Carol Elaine (Burns) Kelm.
Jeanette was raised in Racine where she attended school and excelled scholastically, athletically, and musically earning her the nickname of "SAM". As a result of her hard work and perseverance she ended up graduating ahead of her peers in 1973. During her upbringing in Racine she developed a deep appreciation of God's great outdoors and an adventurous spirit eager to explore as much as possible. On one such adventure she found herself traveling to San Diego, CA to visit her brother and was introduced to his roommate, John May. The two of them began dating and soon were married. They later left California with a dream to live off of the land and found a 20-acre parcel near Newport, WA. There they began to build their 3 story home, bit-by-bit, with their own hands. The venture took 12 long hard years working each day, sometimes at night, and often in inclement weather. Eventually, Jeanette moved into the new home and later achieved the goal of becoming a mother in a house built with her own hands. Jeanette immersed herself whole heartedly in the new capacity and became a part of every facet of her children's lives. She was their homeschool teacher, spiritual leader, and moral compass throughout their lives. She even walked alongside them throughout their college years providing counseling and guidance on navigating the school system. She loved them without end and took them on several adventures throughout the United States and the Caribbean. Later on, Jeanette and John legally separated in 2009 and Jeanette remained in the home. She continued to care for the land and home for the benefit of her children.
Jeanette lived her faith as it was her true passion. Jeanette shared her love of God through her music and actions. She arranged songs of praise that she compiled into a music book still used to this day at a local church. Jeanette also taught the piano to her children and students from the community. She delighted in the company of others and loved to share stories, create smiles and entertain. Whenever possible, she studied her Bible and looked forward to good discussions of scripture with friends and family. Jeanette found joy in the Holidays and shared her joy abundantly.
Jeanette was preceded in death by her mother and father, Harold and Carol Kelm as well as by her brother Ronald Kelm. She is survived by her son, Jonathan May, at the home; daughter, Priscilla York (Zach) of Reno, NV; granddaughter, Aurelia York and sister, Kathy Chipps.
The graveside service for Jeanette will begin at 3:00 P.M on Thursday April 14th at the Mountain View Park Cemetery in Colville, WA. Memorial contributions may be given to the charity of your choice. Danekas Funeral Chapel and Crematory is entrusted with the arrangements.
