Opal Imogene Dedic, lovingly known as Jean, passed away on October 10, 2026, at OSF St. Anthony's Health Care in Alton. Born on July 29, 1922, in Eldorado, Illinois. Living over a century, she witnessed many changes in her world. Jesus knew how long her earthly journey would be and took her softly home to be with Him.

Jean and Joseph F. Dedic were married on October 9, 1953 in Alton.  They had 34 years of marriage when Joseph passed away on April 2, 1987.  Once again her life had changed. 

She had worked as a Time Keeper and in the Shot Shell Department for Olin Corporation in East Alton for over 30 years before retiring in 1979.

Jean will be remembered for the simple and joyful ways she embraced life. She enjoyed sewing, roller skating, and dancing, and she loved to travel, often setting out on bus tour trips with friends. These pleasures brought color and companionship to her days and reflected a spirit that delighted in movement, creativity, and time shared with others. She was a long time member of Brown Street Baptist Church in Alton.  Jean was very proud of her children, grand and great-grand children of whom she loved all dearly.

She is survived by her two daughters, Carol A. Fowler, and husband Bill of Broken Arrow, OK, Nancy L. Maples and husband Bill of Tucson, AZ; one son, Daniel J. Dedic of East Alton who was able to be her caregiver during her later years; four grandchildren, Matthew, Erin, Brian, Nathan and five great-grandchildren, who will all carry forward her memory with love and gratitude. 

Jean was preceded in death by her husband, Joseph, parents, one grandson, Bradley, three sisters and two brothers. May their reunion be one of peace.

Family and friends are invited to gather for a Celebration of Life on October 16, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at Gray Funeral Home, 205 E. Lorena Ave., Wood River, Illinois 62095. A funeral service will follow at 11:00 a.m. at Gray Funeral Home with Rev. Daniel Sternquist officiating.

Burial will follow at Woodland Hill Cemetery in East Alton, Illinois.

Memorials have been designated to the Brown Street Baptist Church in Alton.

Jean’s life was marked by enduring faith, warm companionship, and the quiet happiness found in the things she loved most. She will be dearly missed and tenderly remembered by those who knew and loved her.