JEAN WALBRIDGE RUNYON HOLINGER

Jean Walbridge Runyon Holinger, 97, of Belgrade, Maine, died Dec. 13, 2002, following a short illness. She was the mother of Alice J. Holinger of Wasilla and had enjoyed extended stays in this area.

The daughter of Howard J. Runyon Sr., and Mary W. Bulkley, she was the born in Plainfield, N.J., Sept. 7, 1905. She was the fourth generation of her family to be born there, and she contributed to life in that community until moving to Lewiston, Maine, in 1997.

She graduated from Plainfield High School and, in 1927, from Wellesley College. She taught physical education and hygiene in Passaic and Plainfield, N.J.

She married Carl J. Holinger of Chicago. When he died in 1994, they had celebrated their 58th wedding anniversary. She is survived by three children: Howard Holinger, now of Belgrade; Barbara Hall of Cape Elizabeth; and Alice Holinger of Alaska. She is also survived by a daughter-in-law Susan, five grandchildren and two-great grandchildren. Her death closes a generational chapter for the family.

She was an accomplished cook, seamstress and knitter. She enjoyed many sports and outdoor activities, traveling and spending time with friends and family.

Among her many volunteer activities, she served Girl Scouts more than 40 years in various capacities and was awarded the Thanks Badge, the highest honor given volunteers.

She served the New Jersey chapter of the American Camping Association as both volunteer camp evaluator and executive secretary.

She belonged to the Monday Afternoon Club in Plainfield, a chapter of the Federation of Women's clubs. She held several offices, including the presidency. She successfully led the club through times of major transition. She also belonged to the Women's Literacy Union in Auburn, Maine, another FWC group.

She was a communicant of the Episcopal church and actively involved in parish life wherever she lived.

A memorial service will be held in Maine; internment will be in New Jersey in the spring.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorials be sent to Wellesley College, 106 Central Street, Wellesley, MA 02481; St. David Episcopal Church, Wasilla; or the charity of your choice.