Jeanne Johns Philman

Jeanne Johns Philman, 81, of Bell, Florida passed away November 17, 2023 at Shands Hospital in Gainesville, Florida. 

Jeanne was born on September 30, 1942 in Key West, Florida to the late James and Jeanne Johns. She is preceded in death by her younger sister Joyce Johns and her loving husband of 46 years, the Honorable Judge J. Edward Philman. She is survived by her daughters Joyce Philman, Kendra (Sammie) Philman, and Lynn Page; her grandchildren Audrey (Ashten) Rush, Alexis, Annika, Graham, and Finnegan; and her great grandson Colter. Jeanne is also survived by her beloved extended Philman Family. 

Jeanne worked for many years as the City Clerk of Fanning Springs, Florida. She and Edward welcomed children into their home as foster parents and as part of international exchange student programs. Together they also started a children’s church.

Jeanne was adventurous and loved to experience new countries and cultures, where she made many new friends along the way. Over the years she and Edward enjoyed family travel as well as Rotary International trips. Jeanne loved animals, nature, and the Suwannee River. She was an avid reader as well as a talented artist who created beautiful works, including paintings, sculptures, and poetry. 

Jeanne was a devout Christian dedicated to her faith and her personal studies and ministries. She was a member of Trinity United Methodist Church, and a supporter of the Florida United Methodist Children’s Home.

“Each day is a step we make towards eternity and we shall continue thus to step from day to day until we make the last step, which will bring us into the presence of God.”            - Venerable Catherine McAuley

The family would like to express their gratitude to the healthcare teams at Shands Emergency Department and the Medical ICU. 

Those who wish to do so may honor Jeanne with a donation to the Gilchrist County Public Library in Trenton, Florida. Checks may be mailed to 105 NE 11th Ave, Trenton, FL 32693 with a note designating the gift to the Jeanne Philman Memorial Fund.

The family is planning a private memorial service at a later date.