Jean M. Sorensen (née McNamara)
April 16, 1930 – January 1, 2025
Jean Marie Sorensen went to her heavenly home on January 1, 2025, at the age of 94 in Omaha, Nebraska. Her passing, on the Feast of the Solemnity of Mary, reflects her deep devotion to her faith and family.
Jean was born on April 16, 1930, in Iowa City, Iowa, to Jay J. and Edna (Dempsey) McNamara. She graduated from the University of Iowa with a Bachelor of Arts degree, where she also met the love of her life, Kurt S. Sorensen. They married on October 16, 1954, and built a beautiful life together in Omaha, Nebraska.
Jean had a successful career as an interior designer, working at Nebraska Furniture Mart and Davidson’s before establishing her own business. She also supported Kurt’s endeavors as a partner in OZKO Drugs, where she occasionally worked at the makeup counter. Jean’s proudest accomplishment was raising their four children: Christine, Kathleen, Carolyn, and Stephen, who adored her and cherished her guidance.
A woman of steadfast faith, Jean served her church and community tirelessly. She supported Kurt through his diaconate studies and ordination in 1986. Jean herself was deeply involved in ministry, bringing communion to the sick and serving in hospital ministry. As a founding member of St. Elizabeth Ann Church, she contributed her talents to the Art and Environment committee and sang joyfully in the choir.
Jean’s love for life extended beyond her faith and family. She was an enthusiastic traveler, exploring destinations from the mountains of Colorado to the Holy Land and Florence, Italy. She cherished these experiences, especially those shared with loved ones.
Jean was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Kurt; parents; brothers, Jay Francis (Marjory), R. Drew (Catherine), Robert McNamara; sister, Connie (Hank) Murray.
She is survived by her children: Christine (Patrick) Hamilton, Kathleen McGee of Omaha, NE, Carolyn Sorensen of Murfreesboro, TN, Stephen (Natalie) Sorensen of Valley, NE. Jean was blessed with grandchildren and step-grandchildren: Dominic (Michelle) Romeo, R.J. Romeo (Lauren Spahn), Michelle Romeo (Jake West), Michael Romeo, Becky (Bryan) Scherbring, Wendy Hamilton, Jack McGee, Christopher (Lindzie) Nick, Brandon (Tara) Kirkpatrick, Jennifer (Chris) Soriano, Jake Sorensen, Conner Sorensen, Ellie Sorensen, Nate Sorensen, Will Dugan, and AZ Dugan. She delighted in her 14 great-grandchildren and step-great-grandchildren, each a cherished addition to her family.
Jean’s legacy of love, faith, and service lives on in all who were blessed to know her.
Memorials may be directed to:
*Maple Crest Health Center
2824 N. 66th Ave.
Omaha, NE 68104
Phone: 402-551-2110
or *St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church
5419 N. 114th St.
Omaha, NE 68164
Phone: 402-493-2186
VISITATION: Friday, January 17, 2025, from 5pm to 7pm at the West Center Chapel, followed by VIGIL SERVICE at 7pm.
MASS OF CHRISTIAN BURIAL: Saturday, January 18th at 10:30am at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church, 5419 N. 114th St.
Private Family Graveside Service at Resurrection Cemetery.
To view live broadcasts of the Vigil Service and Mass, please visit www.heafeyheafey.com and click the “Live Cast” button at the top of the home page.
4 Comments
Will always remember Jean, in our great days of the early 1990’s, and preparing for the liturgical seasons. I learn a lot from her and the good people from St. Elizabeth Ann. Rest In Peace, Jean. May your reunion with your husband, a great deacon, bring you life everlasting in this Christmas season.
Thank you, I know my mom and dad always enjoyed serving with you. We appreciate your kind words!
To my Sorensen cousins ~ I am so sorry the world has lost your beloved Mom – and my namesake (My Mom was so glad she finally had a daughter she could name after her only sister!). I have such fond (and some very humorous) memories of times with your Mom, and all of you. I wish I could be there with you to celebrate the life of your creative and innovative Mom – her designs were always so beautiful! Sending much love and my deepest sympathies to you during this sad time. ~ Jeani Murray
Chris l am so sorry about your mother. Cherish her memory. My prayers are with you.
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