K. Jean (Garrison) Magrone

K. Jean Magrone, 95, of Kansas City, MO, and formerly of Berwick, passed away peacefully
Monday, May 29, 2023 at St. Luke’s Hospice House in Kansas City, MO. Born in Berwick, PA
on January 24, 1928, she was a daughter to the late Elliot and Helen (Hixson) Garrison.
Mrs. Magrone was a graduate of Berwick High School, Class of 1946. In 1952, she wed the love
of her life, the late John D. “Johnny” Magrone. Together, they raised their family and shared 48
years of marriage. She had been a longtime employee of the Berwick Area School District, from
which she retired in 1990. Jean was a member of St. Joseph Catholic Parish in Berwick. She had
also been a member of the Berwick Senior Citizens’ Club, DAV, the School Retirees Association,
and AARP. She loved sewing. She made clothing for many people and took pride in making
“pretty little dresses” for her daughter. In 1969, she made all the Berwick High School Marching
band front kilt uniforms for the Orange Bowl parade. She also made shirts and hats for the
Berwick High School Swing Choir and made holiday costumes for staffers at the Salem
Elementary School. After having relocated to Kansas City, MO, she gained the moniker of the
Angel Lady of Kansas City, providing her hand-crafted angels and butterflies to those in need of
a little encouragement or for doing kind deeds for others. She also sent angels and butterflies to
many politicians, hospitals, and service organizations throughout the country. More than
anything, Jean loved spending time with her beloved family, by whom she will be greatly
missed.
Jean is survived by her children: John Daniel Magrone and husband, Will Ray, of Kansas City,
MO and Kaitlin Michelle Magrone of Harrisburg; and sister, Joanne Heacock.
In addition to her parents, Jean was preceded in death by her husband, John D. Magrone, who
passed away December 16, 2000. She was also preceded in death by siblings: Sarah Strong,
Dolores Whitenight, and William Garrison.
All are welcome to join Jean’s family for her graveside service on Thursday, June 8th, 2023 at
11:00 am at Pine Grove Cemetery Annex, Walnut Street, Berwick. Memorial contributions in
Jean’s name may be made to St. Joseph Catholic Parish, 721 Monroe Street, Berwick, PA 18603
or to the McBride Memorial Library, 500 N. Market Street, Berwick, PA 18603. The Kelchner,
McMichael & Readler Funeral Home, Inc. is honored to serve the Magrone family. Online
messages of comfort and support may be left at www.kelchnerfuneralhome.com.

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