Oct. 19, 1917 - Dec. 3, 2009

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. -- Jean Ruth (Thomas) Hannah, age 92, of Tallahassee and formerly of Elkhart, Ind., passed away on Thursday, Dec. 3, 2009.

She was born in Elkhart to Emmett and Vinnie (Nickum) Thomas, also of Elkhart. She was a graduate of Elkhart High School and attended Hanover College, where she met and married Jack Hannah (former husband).

Jean lived in Florida for the past 37 years and had a passion for art in quite a variety of mediums. "Grammy," as she was known to family and many friends, loved to draw and paint butterflies, often a watercolor that included the insect's favorite flower to visit.

Her residence showcased her love for her grandchildren and great-grandchildren through pencil and charcoal portraits. Their homes are graced with some of her artwork, also.

Ms. Hannah was preceded in death by one daughter, Judy (Ed) Halderman.

She is survived by one son, Jim (Nancy) Hannah; five grandchildren, Laura Levine, Steve Halderman, David Halderman, Benjamin Hannah and Josef Hannah; and eight great-grandchildren, Terry McGowan, Kathryn McGowan, Paige Halderman, Adison Hannah, Clarissa Halderman, Nolan Hannah, Duncan Halderman and Elliot Hannah.

Jean was a 20-year cancer survivor, but lost Judy, her daughter and best friend, to cancer. Memorials may be given to the American Cancer Society in her honor.

A gathering of family and friends will be held on Sunday, Dec. 20, 2009, from 2 to 4 p.m. at Billings Funeral Home, 812 Baldwin St., Elkhart. Private family burial will take place in Rice Cemetery. An additional family memorial service will take place in Tallahassee over the holidays.

To share a memory of Jean or to send the family a condolence, visit www.billingsfuneralhome.com.