Jean Ellen Schonhoff

Jean Ellen Schonhoff, age 81, of St. Louis, Missouri, passed away peacefully surrounded by her daughters and son-in-law on November 21, 2024. Born on October 13, 1943, in St. Louis, Jean was the daughter of the late Charles Phillips and Elise Gates. 

A devoted mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and compassionate caregiver, Jean worked as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) for many years, where she touched the lives of many with her gentle nature and unwavering dedication. She found great fulfillment in caring for others and was a source of comfort and support to her patients and their families. 

Jean was known for her kindness, her sense of humor, and her deep love for her family. She cherished spending time with her children, Deborah Vahrenhold (and her husband, Tim Vahrenhold) and Kerry Schonhoff, as well as her grandchildren, Robert Vahrenhold (and his wife, Ashley Vahrenhold), Crystal Idstein (and her husband, Spencer Idstein), and Ashley Hopkins (and her husband, Ryan Hopkins). She was also a proud great-grandmother to Brooke Vahrenhold, Robert Vahrenhold, Emmalynn Vahrenhold, Haley Hayeslip, Wyatt Idstein, Peyton Idstein, Cody Idstein, and Lucas Hopkins. Her family was the heart of her world, and she was always there with a listening ear, a caring touch, and a smile to brighten their days. 

Jean was welcomed home into heaven by her beloved husband, Kenneth Schonhoff, and her son, Robby Schonhoff. 

She is preceded in death by her beloved parents, her dear sisters Sue Vogel, Marilyn Lee, and Judy Belsky, and brother-in-law John Allen. She is survived by her sisters Peggy Allen, and Nancy Sprinkle (and her husband, Randy Sprinkle), her brother, John Phillips (and his wife, Jeanie Phillips), children, Deborah and Kerry, son-in-law, Tim, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, cousins, nieces, nephews and friends who will remember her for her loving spirit and nurturing heart. 

A visitation will be held at Baue Funeral Home - Cave Springs on Tuesday, December 3rd, 2024 at 9:30am, with a private burial to follow. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to PAN Foundation, an incredible foundation whose mission is to accelerate access to affordable, equitable healthcare for all. Please donate at the following website: panfoundation.org. 

Jean will be deeply missed by all who knew her. Her legacy of kindness, compassion, and love will continue to live on in the hearts of her family and all who were fortunate to know her.