Elizabeth “Jean” Chance passed away on Sunday July 19, 2026, surrounded by her loving friends and family. She was born on January 13th, 1933, to Glenn and Wilma (Certain) Smith. After graduating from Concannon High School in 1951, Jean went to work in the office of Bell Bakery and later worked at Miller-Parrot Baking Company. In 1975, she went to work at Indiana State University in the office at Laboratory University School where she worked for 17 ½ years. Because of the school closing, she retired in 1995 as the Account Clerk at the Audio-Visual Center.

Jean got married in 1955 to Harold Chance, who passed away in 2012. Survivors include a daughter, Lise Speer and Granddaughter, Mia Speer. She is survived by one sister, Judy Wilt; and another sister Mary Glick, who preceded her in death, also survived by one brother, James Smith. Other survivors include Donna Judson, who was a friend and a caregiver and whom she loved like a daughter, as well as her nieces and nephew.

Jean was a longtime member of Christ Lutheran Church and most recently a member of Trinity Lutheran Church. A gathering of friends and family will be Wednesday July 22, 2026 from 11:00 am until 12:00 pm in Trinity Lutheran Church with a memorial service starting at 12:00 pm in the church. A private burial service will be held in Dunlap Cemetery in Dennison, Illinois. In lieu of flowers, we request donations be made to Trinity Lutheran Church. Online condolences may be left at www.debaunfuneralhomes.com