Jean Ann Olson

Jean Ann Olson, 91, of Charlotte, NC, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, June 10, 2025, surrounded by her loving family.

She was born September 28, 1933, in Wausau, Wisconsin, to the late Angus and Florence Rothwell. Jean was also preceded in death by her brother, William Rothwell, and her sister, Marilyn Geraldson.

Jean married her childhood sweetheart, William Olson. Together, they shared a devoted and joyful marriage that spanned 70 years, a true love story that began when they were just 15.

Jean’s greatest pride and joy was being a mother to her five children: Scott Olson (Frances), Sarah Olson, Julie Vermillion (Carson), Jenny Jones (Brian), and Becky Thoms (Rudy). She was a beloved grandmother to 11 grandchildren: Katelyn Patton, Jackie Burten, Grayson Vermillion, Brady Vermillion, Aiden Vermillion, Brandon Jones, Garrett Jones, Tanner Jones, Alyssa Thoms, Addison Thoms, and Landon Thoms, and was deeply cherished by her six great-grandchildren: Abigail Patton, Mason Patton, Sadie Patton, Levi Patton, Samuel Patton, and Kaia Burten.

Jean graduated from Lincoln High School in Manitowoc, Wisconsin and later attended Lawrence University and the University of Minnesota, where she studied Education. She went on to teach both in the United States and abroad in France, sharing her love of learning with students around the world.

Known for her radiant smile and warm, welcoming spirit, Jean never met a stranger. Her faith in God was the foundation of her life. Though she hadn’t planned on becoming a pastor’s wife, or later, a military wife, she embraced both roles with grace, dedication, and heart.

Jean was a gifted and passionate violin teacher who inspired a love of music in children of all ages. Her lessons were always filled with joy, and she never forgot to make them fun. Outside the classroom, she could often be found perfecting her bowling skills with her beloved league, where she was known for her strikes and sense of camaraderie.

Jean loved life deeply, especially people, and above all, her family. Her home was always filled with laughter, music, and the companionship of a loyal German Shepherd. Her unwavering love for William endured through every chapter of life and until her very last breath.

If you had the privilege of knowing Jean, you know just how lucky you were. She had a rare and beautiful gift for making everyone feel seen, valued, and loved.

The funeral service will be held at 10:00 am on Monday, June 16, 2025, at Messiah Lutheran Church, 8300 Providence Road, Charlotte. The family will receive friends immediately following the service at the church.  Memorial donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association; donorservices.alz.org.

Hartsell Funeral Home of Harrisburg is serving the Olson family.