Jean H. Kienzl

On November 7, 2023, Jean Humphrey Kienzl went peacefully surrounded by loved ones to her rest with the Lord.  Born December 19, 1950, Jean was the youngest daughter of the late Glenn and Anna May Humprey; beloved wife for forty years of her “Rock,” the late Stephen P. Kienzl; selfless mother of Krystal (Brad) Schulte and Carol (A.J.) Laugelli; proud grandmother of Noah Schulte, Jeana Schulte, Joey Laugelli, and Alaina Laugelli, who knew her as their Grandma “Gigi”; and cherished sister of Joan (Frank) Sell.

A native of Bradford, Pennsylvania, Jean attended the University of Pittsburgh, earning her master’s degree in education.  Later, Jean served as a teacher of blind and visually impaired students for the Allegheny Intermediate Unit for over thirty years.  Dedicated to her role, Jean spent many late nights (before computers) transposing school books into braille and, over the years, became a mentor with whom many pupils kept in touch with long after graduation.  With her family life, Jean often stated that her most important and treasured role was that of a mother.  She prioritized making lasting memories with themed birthday parties, vacations to special destinations, and unique holiday traditions.  Like her devotion to her family, Jean faithfully sought to spread Christ’s love through her many ministries with the Church.  She was the founder of Holy Angels’ Prayer Group, a long-time member of Christian Mothers, part of the Funeral Ministry, and a Eucharistic Minister who delivered Communion to homebound parishioners.  Jean also enjoyed fostering meaningful relationships with her many friends as they bonded over Gal Pal luncheons and Girlfriend Buffets.  The name Jean means “Gracious gift from God,” and with her inherent calling to help and connect with others, Jean truly embodied this idea.  Jean will be dearly missed, but she leaves behind a legacy that includes a generous heart, a servant soul, and a grateful family.  Jean was a bright light to all who knew her and, just as John the Apostle reminded people long ago, “The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.”

Family and friends are invited to attend a Funeral Mass celebrated in Holy Angels Church, 408 Baldwin Road, Pittsburgh, 15207, Saturday morning, November 11, at 10:30am.