Jean Ann Sheridan

SCARBOROUGH – Jean Ann Sheridan was born on June 11, 1937 in Compton, Calif. to Eleanor and Edmund Sheridan. She grew up in Providence, R.I. and graduated from Brown University (Pembroke College) in 1959 with a degree in English and received her Master of Library Science at Fairfield University in Connecticut. She became the Research Librarian at the University of Rhode Island where she spent many years helping grad students figure out how to use the Dewey Decimal System. She then taught writing at the University of Southern Maine.

Research Librarian was the perfect profession for Jean as she was curious about the world around her. Jean was a life-long learner. If one of her grandchildren were listening to a particular song or had read an interesting book, Jean would research that musician or author so she could then share her thoughts when chatting again with her grandchild. People liked to be around her. She asked questions. She made you feel important and valuable.

Jean was also loved by her community because she embraced being a part of it. She made her mark wherever she went. She volunteered at Preble Street for many years. She taught ESL to the Somali population in Portland and assisted refugees with getting their citizenship. She was an advocate for the refugee and unhoused populations and truly believed in an altruistic life. She lived simply so others could simply live.

Jean loved, above all, walking on the beach. In the summer and warmer months, she would amble to Scarborough beach each day after breakfast. Her children and grandchildren would often call her for a walk on the beach or, better yet, a full day in the sun. Beach days were the best days. She would walk the sand to find solace, answers, warmth, light. We have all inherited the same need for those ocean moments. She will always be found in the sand, water, and air on Scarborough beach.

Jean is survived by her three brothers, eight grandchildren, and her four children: Sue Timpson, Mark Langham, Julia Langham, and Liz Langham. Her four children, who were all incredibly close to her, were by her side when she passed. Jean will be missed by so many. She made her mark and at 4’10”, she was a force to be reckoned with.

A Celebration of her life will be held on June 10 at 10:30 a.m. at Saint Nicholas church in Scarborough.

In lieu of flowers, Jean asked that people donate to her alma mater, Pembroke College Scholarship Fund 401-863-3300