Mae Jean Faith Hainley Kokoska, beloved wife, mother, and Nana passed away on Mother’s Day, May 14, 2023 at the age of 79 in Zionsville, Indiana.
Jean was the youngest of three children born to James and Betty Hainley on October 16, 1943 in a suburb of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Growing up, Jean was known for her bright smile and long ponytails. As she grew, she developed a quick wit, a love for God, and many friendships to share her life.
Jean met Patrick Kokoska while at the University of Pittsburgh where Jean majored in mathematics. They were married on August 21, 1965, and had three sons Evan, David and Scott. Jean and Pat moved from Pennsylvania to Terre Haute, IN, where they raised their children. They have since lived in Rockville, South Bend, and Zionsville, Indiana where Jean was a dedicated family steward and enjoyed many creative hobbies.
Despite a life of chronic pain, Jean sought to help others. Jean hosted hundreds of guests in her home with homemade meals and cheerful conversation. She received a graduate degree in counseling and became a caseworker for the State of Indiana. Jean helped many children and women in need during this time, with some calling her years after she retired for guidance. Jean served with her husband in Prison Fellowship and in their ministries at World Gospel Church for several decades.
During her most recent years, in addition to being a faithful companion to Pat, Jean enjoyed Bible study fellowship, planting flowers, and visiting with family and friends.
Jean loved the old hymns, the verse of one of her favorites being, “because He lives, I can face tomorrow, because He lives, all fear is gone.”
Jean is survived by her three sons, Evan (wife Mimi, children Sam and Ryan), David (wife Kristy, children Jack and Ella), and Scott (wife Carrie, children Ethan, Kate, Annie, Lilli, Caleb, Joshua, and Jonah); and her brother Jim.
The immediate family will be holding a private ceremony honoring her life.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Compassion International via the website below.
www.compassion.com/jeankokoska
Note Her Husband’s Site at www.compassion.com/patrickkokoska
If sending by mail, checks should be made out to Compassion International. In the memo or note portion of the check, write “Memorial Gift Jean Kokoska”.
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