Frances Jean Whittemore, 89, longtime of Essex, passed away in her home Thursday, February 16, 2017 following a lengthy illness. Born in Boston  she was the daughter of the late George M. and Margaret M. (Devine) Whittemore.

Jean traveled the world and had lived in London for two years. She loved cats, Jeopardy and gardening.

Jean is survived by her longtime companion Jennifer Stephens of Essex; two nieces Deirdre L. Brassil of Bridgewater and Tracy J. Kelley of Conroe, TX. Jean was predeceased by two sisters, Ruth Regan of Brighton,  Barbara Whittemore of South Boston and a  brother, Ralph Whittemore of Bridgewater

Visiting hours will 2 to 4 pm Saturday, February 18 in the Whittier-Porter Funeral Home, 6 High Street, Ipswich. Family and friends are respectfully welcomed. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions in her name may be made to Rosie’s Place, 889 Harrison Avenue, Boston, MA 02118.