Jean Lydia Netsai Medley was born August 27th, 1960 in Harare, Zimbabwe to Mr. Mtatabikwa Philemon and the late Mrs. Edith Philemon (néeJoseph). She spent her childhood and early adult life in Harare where she met her Husband and love of her life Thomas Medley. They spent several years living in Zimbabwe, Nigeria and Kenya before finally on Thomas’ retirement moving back to America and settling in Greenfield Indiana at Kufara Acres. As a couple they shared a deep love for all things African and were keen collectors of arts and crafts representing various parts of the continent. Their often matching African inspired outfits were also a constant feature of their shared life. After a short illness she passed away peacefully on September 6, 2024 at home surrounded by family. A proud librarian by profession and prolific reader herself, Jean championed a love of books and cherished her time reading stories to children in particular which brought her immense joy. Jean also loved her sports, first amongst them soccer which she followed closely as well as her beloved Colts & Pacers. Jean was known for her great sense of humour, fierce loyalty, and loving spirit. She found great joy in cooking homemade meals for her family, dancing to the tunes of her favourite artists like George Benson, Chuck Mangione, the Bee Gees, and Randy Crawford.

A devout Catholic, Jean served as a Eucharist minister at St. Michael’s Catholic Church for many years and took pride in being a part of Leadership Hancock County in 2007, when she was selected by the Hancock County Chamber of Commerce.

She was a devoted wife, mother, sister, grandmother, and great-grandmother.

She is survived by her Husband Thomas Medley Sr, her beloved children, Carolyn, Stevie, Shena, TJ, Janine (Nina), Torrence (Tory) and Nyasha (Nash), sons-in-law Oratile and Arthur (Art), daughters-in-law Tabatha and Lisa, and her precious grandchildren, Malcom, Johnathan, Tonya, Vivian, Victor, Vincent, Victavia, Tamara, Brie, Tommy, Laila, Lamar, Tahjae, R’Tez, Nyala, Kai, Mooketsi (Mo), and Reabetsoe (Rea), as well as numerous great-grandchildren.

Jean also leaves behind her Father, Uncle, Aunt, Sisters—Nancy, Patie, Edith and brother Micah—along with a host of aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, and nephews spread throughout the United States, South Africa, Zimbabwe, Cyprus, and various parts of Europe.

Jean’s legacy of love and laughter will forever hold a cherished place in the hearts of all who knew her.