Jean Marie (Fleig) Carroll 1949 - 2024

FLEIG, CARROLL, BLOUNT

Posted By: Connie Swearingen (email)
Date: 12/18/2024 at 19:05:09

Sioux City Journal
14 September 2024

Jean Marie (Fleig) Carroll

Sioux City, Iowa

Jean Marie (Fleig) Carroll, the daughter of Richard and Mary (Blount) Fleig, was born on November 23, 1949, in Ames, Iowa. She peacefully passed away on September 11, 2024, at her home in Sioux City, Iowa, at the age of 74. A cherished matriarch known for her kindness, sense of humor, and support for her family, Jean leaves behind a legacy of love and dedication.

Jean grew up in Ames and owned a horse for most of her childhood and early adult life. She was actively engaged in her school community, proudly serving as a cheerleader and on student council during her years at Ames High School, from which she graduated with the Class of 1968. Pursuing her passion for education, she attended Iowa State University, where she earned a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education in 1972. While at Iowa State, she made lasting memories as a member of the choir, Angel Flight Auxiliary, and Chi Omega Sorority.

While attending college, Jean met her future husband, Dr. Thomas J. Carroll. The couple was united in marriage on August 12, 1972, at St. Thomas Aquinas Church in Ames. Following their wedding, Jean began her teaching career in Ames but soon transitioned to a new path. After three years in education, Jean and Tom relocated to Vermillion, South Dakota, where she returned to school to receive her nursing degree. Throughout their marriage, Jean and Tom embraced their journeys in various communities, including Iowa City, St. Louis, Ottumwa, and Sioux City, as he completed his education and embarked on his medical career. Jean worked as a nurse until 1982 when she devoted herself to caring for her family.

A devoted daughter, wife, mother, grandmother, and sister, Jean's passion for her family was evident in her enthusiastic support of her children's activities and later in the lives of her grandchildren. Known for her famous Scotcheroos, she will be fondly remembered for her warm and nurturing spirit.

Jean's dedication extended beyond her family. She was actively involved in PEO and the Junior League of Sioux City, served many years for Meals on Wheels and was a great supporter of Heelan Sports and Catholic Schools. Jean's contributions were rooted in her strong faith as a member of Holy Cross Parish - Blessed Sacrament Church.

Throughout her life, Jean nurtured a genuine love for animals, especially dogs and horses, and she enjoyed gardening, most of all, cultivating native plants. She loved and cherished many pets throughout her life, including her horse King, her cat Lucy, dogs Abby, Rinty, Teddy, Rico, Willy and Buddy, and her two current dogs, Fritz and Trudy.

Jean is survived by her husband, Dr. Thomas J. Carroll of Sioux City; their three children, Mary Greeley and husband Chad of Mendota Heights, MN; Dr. Thomas R. "Tommy" Carroll and wife Amie of Sioux City; and Anne "Annie" Garbe and husband Ben of Edina, MN; ten grandchildren: Kayden, J.J., Emma, Colby, Tommy, Everett, Colin, Grant, Grace, and Eloise; one sister, Barb Fleig of St. Paul, MN; sister-in-law, Connie Fleig of Ames; special cousin, Helmut Berger of Lorch, Germany; along with many nieces, nephews, and dear friends. She was preceded in death by her parents and her brother, John Fleig.

The family appreciates the wonderful care Jean received while at the June E. Nylen Cancer Center, St. Luke's Hospital and Hospice of Siouxland.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations in her name to the June E. Nylen Cancer Center or Bishop Heelan Catholic Schools.

A visitation for Jean will be held from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. Monday, September 16, 2024, at Meyer Brothers Colonial Chapel in Sioux City. A Rosary Service will be at 4:00 p.m. with family greeting friends from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. and a Vigil Service at 7:00 p.m. on Monday at the funeral home. A Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, September 17, 2024, at Holy Cross Parish – Blessed Sacrament Church in Sioux City. Please visit her obituary page at www.meyerbroschapels.com to view livestream of Funeral Mass. Burial will follow at Calvary Cemetery.